Acer platanoides
Mature Size, Growth, Longevity
Average mature size of 40-50' tall and 35-45' wide, occasionally over 90' tall in optimal conditions. Moderate growth rate, slowing with age.
Native Range
Continental Europe, introduced to United States about 1756.
Flower and Fruit Details
Flowers are clustered, yellow to greenish-yellow, each 0.33" diameter, appearing in spring before the leaves. Fruits are winged samaras, abundant, 1.5-2" long, glabrous, maturing September-October.
Leaf and Bark Features
Leaves dark green, some cultivars red. Fall color sometimes yellow, usually holding off until late fall. Bark is grayish-black bark with ridges.
Culture and Care
Prefers full sun or part shade, well-drained, moderately moist, fertile soil. Easy to transplant, can be rooted from softwood cuttings and sown from seed. Zones 5-8. Susceptible to verticillium wilt, some leaf scorch. Intolerant of 2,4-D.
Taxa and Plants of this Species at BCA
The following taxa are (or were) represented in the collections at Boone County Arboretum. Additional taxa may be available in the trade that are not included here.
Acer platanoides 'Crimson King' // Crimson King Norway Maple
Tree. Rich purple-maroon leaf color, probably the most vigorous red-leaved form. Originated as a seedling of 'Schwedleri' in 1937 in Belgium.
-- not currently in our collection --Acer platanoides 'Royal Red' // Royal Red Norway Maple
Tree. Average size 40' tall and 30' wide, similar to 'Crimson King' but supposedly hardier and with a better maroon color. However, leaf scorch can be severe.
BT002710b