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Identification
Norway maple is a
medium to large deciduous tree in the maple family (Aceraceae). Its
average height is 30-60 feet, but can reach 100 feet in ideal
conditions. It closely resembles native maple species like red and
sugar maple (Acer rubrum and saccharum). It differs
from native species in that the leaves are darker green, glossy, and
larger at least two more noticeable lobes. The twigs are stouter,
and the buds are more rounded. Flowering is also different in that
they occur in clusters and are a showy yellow color. Seeds resemble
sugar maple seeds, occurring in pairs on fine stems. Norway maple
can also be distinguished from native maples by its milky-white sap,
a feature all native maple species lack.
Origin
Europe, Western
Asia
Habitat
Norway maple
prefers full sun, and tolerates adverse conditions such as air
pollution and soil extremes like sand or clay, even acidic soils. It
grows well in open woods and natural open areas, usually producing
pure stands. It has a more dense growth habit than native maple
species; infested woodlots usually consist of a high amount of
canopy trees being Norway maple and the understory being nearly all
Norway maple.
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Ecological Threat
Norway maple is
often planted because of its high tolerance of adverse growing
conditions, and usually escapes into nearby natural areas the first
year after seeding. The Norway maple saplings compete with and push
out native species, and as they grow they become dominant in the
forest canopy, slowly out-competing native tree species. In natural
areas near urban plantings, the tree composition is nearly 100%
Norway maple, with very little chance for native plant survival and
no chance of plant or animal diversity.
Recommended Native Alternatives
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