Norway Maple Tree (Acer Platanoides)

The Norway Maple tree (Acer Platanoides) is a fast-growing deciduous broadleaf tree, widely planted in the UK for its broad canopy, bold seasonal colour, and adaptability to challenging conditions. Large, five-lobed leaves emerge alongside clusters of yellow-green flowers in spring, often before the leaves fully open, and turn a striking golden-yellow in autumn before falling. Tolerant of pollution, shade, and a wide range of soils including chalk and clay, Norway Maple trees are a practical choice for urban streets, parks, open landscapes, and sites where a fast-growing windbreak or shelterbelt is required. Mature trees can reach between 20m and 30m in height with a spread of 15m to 20m.

With a rapid growth rate and sturdy structure, Norway Maple trees are an effective choice for open rural landscapes, providing reliable windbreak and shelterbelt screening for farms, estates, and exposed sites.

For wildlife and pollinator planting, Norway Maple trees provide an early source of nectar and pollen for bees in spring, while the winged samaras offer food for birds and small mammals through autumn.

Tree Attributes:

Height: 20m – 30m
Spread: 15m – 20m
Growth Rate: Fast
Position: Prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade
Soil: Thrives in well-drained soil; adapts to a variety of soil types, including chalky and clay soils
Leaves: Large, five-lobed leaves that shift from lush green to radiant golden-yellow in the autumn months
Flowers: Clusters of yellow-green flowers bloom in spring, often before the leaves fully emerge
Seeds: Produces distinctive winged seeds ("samaras") in late summer, which are easily dispersed by the wind
Bark: Smooth grey-brown bark when young, gradually becoming more textured and furrowed with age