Acer truncatum a platanoides 'Keithsform'

tree

Norwegian Sunset Maple

Name: Norwegian Sunset Maple
Brand: Acer
Availability: InStock

Acer truncatum a platanoides 'Keithsform'

$185.00

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

420 inches

Width

300 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Adaptable

Lifespan

Medium (60-80 years)

Native To

Hybrid

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans, but leaves can be toxic to horses.

The Story

Plant Bio

This is a hybrid maple, combining the heat and drought tolerance of the Shantung Maple (Acer truncatum) with the cold hardiness and form of the Norway Maple (Acer platanoides). These hybrids are valued as tough, adaptable, and beautiful shade trees. 'Keithsform', sold as Norwegian Sunset, is distinguished by its uniform, upright-oval shape and its spectacular, reliable fall color, a vibrant blend of yellow-orange and red. It has glossy dark green summer foliage and better heat tolerance than its Norway Maple parent.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Norwegian Sunset Maple is a premier shade tree, offering a dense, symmetrical canopy of glossy green leaves in summer, followed by a consistently brilliant display of orange-red fall color that rivals the best maples.

Its uniform growth habit and moderate size make it an excellent choice for street plantings, parking lots, and residential yards. It is highly adaptable to urban stresses like heat, drought, and a range of soil types.

The early spring flowers provide a nectar source for bees when few other trees are in bloom. The dense canopy offers shelter and nesting sites for birds during the summer months.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

Sooner Plant Farm

1+ Gal Pot

In Stock$185.00

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

Select a site with full sun and well-drained soil.
Dig a hole two to three times the width of the root ball.
Place the tree so its root flare is at or slightly above the soil line.
Backfill with the excavated soil, gently tamping to remove air pockets.
Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil.
Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch over the root zone, avoiding the trunk.

Pro Tip

Water deeply and infrequently to encourage a deep, drought-tolerant root system, rather than shallow, frequent waterings.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide supplemental water during extended dry periods, even for established trees.
Prune to develop a strong central leader and good branch structure when young.
Mulch annually to conserve moisture and improve soil health.
Allow ample space for the tree to reach its mature size.

Don't

Don't plant too deep; ensure the root flare is visible.
Avoid wounding the trunk with lawnmowers or string trimmers.
Don't over-prune; remove no more than 25% of the canopy in a single year.
Avoid planting where its dense surface roots will conflict with sidewalks or driveways.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Plant
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Reliable and colorful street treeUniform shade tree for residential lawnsDurable choice for commercial landscapes

Companion Plants

Hosta plantaginea Heuchera 'Autumn Bride' Vinca minor Geranium maculatum Tiarella cordifolia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Norwegian Sunset Maple questions

What zones can Norwegian Sunset Maple grow in?

Norwegian Sunset Maple is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Norwegian Sunset Maple deer resistant?

Yes — Norwegian Sunset Maple is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Norwegian Sunset Maple bloom?

Norwegian Sunset Maple typically blooms in early spring through mid-spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Norwegian Sunset Maple need full sun?

Norwegian Sunset Maple does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Norwegian Sunset Maple drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Norwegian Sunset Maple handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.