Native to Northern Europe, the Emerald Queen Norway Maple has been a North American variety for hundreds of years since being brought over by immigrants in early settlements. It reseeds easily, so it has naturalized in most parts of the continent with temperate climates.
Well-Adjusted, Tolerant, Medium-Sized Shady Tree
A medium-size deciduous tree that does well in a wide range of soils and tolerates air pollution, the Emerald Queen Norway Maple has been widely planted as a shade tree in urban areas throughout the U.S. It grows to a height of 40-50 feet with a dense, symmetrical oval crown. Its large (up to 7”) leaves have the familiar five-pointed maple shape and are deep shiny green before turning a brilliant yellow prior to dropping in the fall.
Spring Flowers, Seed Pods and Shallow Roots
Like other maples, the Emerald Queen produces small, unremarkable flowers in the spring that develop into double-winged seed pods in summer. It’s easily grown and transplanted, but its dense canopy can keep grass and other plants from growing well in its shade. It’s a shallow-rooted tree that can cause soil heaving, so it’s best to keep it at least six feet from pavement to avoid cracking, and due to its height, it should be planted well away from power lines and other overhead obstructions.
Hardy and Disease-Resistant
The Emerald Queen Maple is a hardy tree with no serious insect or disease problems and is easy to maintain. It can be susceptible to verticillium wilt, though, so careful monitoring and quick remediation is important. The bark of younger trees can be susceptible to sunscald and cracking in winter, so wrapping their trunks is advisable in locations where harsh wintertime conditions exist.
Cultivars for Every Landscape
There are several cultivars of Norway Maples, including a dwarf variety, so choose one that’s right for your landscape. And if you’re planning to add a maple to your landscape, or have one that needs maintenance, Donovan Arborists offers planting services in the greater Denver metro and Front Range area. Call us for a free consultation at 303-623-8733.
