Acer platanoide

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Acer platanoide is a unique species of trees more commonly known as the Norway Maple. Acer platanoides are a native of the European continent and have spread strongly and rapidly all the way down from Northern Europe to parts of Iran. It is a deciduous tree which has the ability to grow 80 eighty feet tall and roughly 3 feet thick at the trunk throughout its lifetime. The lifespan of this particular species is roughly 250 years.

Acer platanoides develop their leaves in early spring (April) and generally create a very thick canopy which is very dense and provides a large amount of shade. This usually blocks underlying species from receiving adequate solar radiation. The leaves usually consist of five to seven prongs with approximately three subtle serrations as shown in the picture. The seeds of the Acer platanoide are can travel very far in the wind (spiraling blades), helping to aid in the establishment of this somewhat invasive species.

Acer platanoides were likely introduced to the United States sometime in the 1700s; likely in Eastern Pennsylvania. The new distribution of Acer platanoides throughout the United States is likely the result of human intervention. Acer platanoides have been planted widely due to their large shade characteristic and their ability to thrive on harsh soil or in other harsh environments. The species does require a higher amount of precipitation. Riparian zones, therefore, are potentially susceptible to invasion from this species. Although they can be found at almost all elevations, this species thrives at particularly higher elevations (above 4500 feet).

Morgan Brgoch, Fall 2007