The Acer platanoides, commonly known as the Norway Maple, is a deciduous tree renowned for its robust growth and adaptability. This tree typically reaches a mature height of 12 to 18 meters, with a spread that can extend to 12 meters, creating a broad and rounded canopy. The Norway Maple is easily identifiable by its large, five-lobed leaves that turn a striking yellow in autumn, providing a vibrant display of seasonal colour.

Key features of the Norway Maple include its thick, dark bark that becomes furrowed with age, and its small, yellow-green flowers that appear in early spring before the leaves fully unfurl. The tree also produces distinctive winged seeds, known as samaras, which mature in late summer and are often dispersed by the wind. These features not only add to the tree's ornamental value but also play a role in its reproductive strategy.

The Norway Maple is quite versatile in terms of soil preferences, thriving in a variety of soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils, provided they are well-drained. It is moderately tolerant of urban pollution, making it a popular choice for city landscapes and parks. This tree prefers full sun to partial shade, although it can tolerate some shade, which contributes to its widespread use in different planting conditions. Due to its dense canopy and extensive root system, however, it can be competitive with other plants, so it's advisable to consider its placement carefully in mixed plantings.

Tree Specs

• Common Name: Norway Maple
• Botanical Name: ACER platanoides / Norway Maple
• Mature Height: 12-18m
• Key Features:
  o     Attractive foliage
  o    Flowering
  o    Urban trees