Species

Acer platanoidesNorway Maple

5 other cultivars

tree

Norway Maple

Acer platanoides 'Emerald Queen'

The Story

Plant Bio

Acer platanoides is a large, fast-growing deciduous tree native to Europe, known for its dense shade, tolerance of urban conditions, and brilliant fall color.

'Emerald Queen' is a popular cultivar selected for its rapid, uniform growth into an upright oval crown and its lustrous, dark green summer foliage that turns a clear yellow in autumn.

Uses & Benefits:

Valued for its dense, symmetrical canopy providing deep shade, and its reliable, clear yellow fall color. Its form makes it a classic choice for formal landscapes and avenues.

Its rapid growth and dense foliage make it an effective shade tree, helping to reduce cooling costs for nearby buildings. It is also highly tolerant of pollution and compacted soils, making it suitable for urban environments.

While not native to North America and sometimes invasive, its early spring flowers provide a nectar source for bees. However, its dense shade can inhibit the growth of native understory plants.

SpeciesAcer platanoidesNorway Maple

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

600 inches

Width

480 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7

Water

Low to moderate

Humidity

Adaptable

Lifespan

60+ years

Native To

Europe and Western Asia

Toxicity

Leaves can be toxic to horses if ingested in large quantities.

Bloom period

Early spring

In flower about 1 month of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select a site with full sun and ample space to grow
Dig a hole two to three times wider than the root ball
Position the tree so the root flare is at or slightly above soil level
Backfill with the original soil, gently tamping to remove air pockets
Water thoroughly immediately after planting to settle the soil
Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch, keeping it away from the trunk

Pro Tip

Water deeply and infrequently during the first few years to encourage a deep, drought-tolerant root system.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide supplemental water during extended dry periods, especially when young.
Prune in late winter to maintain a strong structure.
Monitor for aphids, which can cause sticky honeydew to drip from leaves.

Don't

Do not plant where its shallow roots will compete with lawns or damage pavement.
Avoid piling mulch against the trunk, as this can cause rot.
Do not fertilize unless a soil test indicates a specific deficiency.

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Stately shade tree for large lawnsDurable and uniform street treeFast-growing screen for large properties

Companion Plants

Hosta Heuchera Astilbe Vinca minor Geranium macrorrhizum

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Norway Maple questions

What zones can Norway Maple grow in?

Norway Maple is hardy in USDA Zones 4–7. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Norway Maple deer resistant?

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

When does Norway Maple bloom?

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

Does Norway Maple need full sun?

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

Is Norway Maple drought tolerant?

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