Norway maple is a native of northern Europe, but is commonly found throughout the US as a planted ornamental and naturalized in disturbed areas in urban and forested areas. Some states list this species as an invasive exotic plant because of its ability to out-compete native vegetation. In spite of this fact, the tree is a useful and widely planted ornamental.

· Virginia Tech Dendrology Sheet for Norway Maple

· Common Trees of Pennsylvania

· University of Connecticut Plant Database

Description:
Norway maple is a large tree and typically grows to heights of 40 to 60 feet, but can reach 90'. The bark of the tree is very similar to that of white ash, developing fissures as the tree ages. Bark of young trees is smooth and light brown.

Leaves of Norway maple are arranged in an opposite pattern along twigs, which are stout and reddish-brown in color. The leaves are large (4"-7" wide) and 5-lobed. One good distinguishing characteristic is the milky white sap, which exudes from the leaf stalk when broken. Leaves are typically dark green in color, but some planted cultivars have deep red leaves as well.

Distribution:
The Norway maple is a native of Europe, and has been extensively planted as an ornamental along streets and in parks. In some parts of the US the tree is considered to be invasive… that is it is known to escape from cultivation and grow wild, competing with native plants.

Habitat:
Planted ornamental and naturalized in disturbed sites near cultivated populations.

Uses:
In spite of a number of drawbacks, Norway maple is often recommended and planted because of its fast growth and tolerance to a variety of urban conditions, especially its tolerance to salt. In some areas the tree is tapped to produce maple syrup.

Common Trees of Pennsylvania; Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources; Bureau of Forestry.