Norway Maple (European Maple)
Acer platanoides · Sapindaceae (Soapberry family, traditionally placed in Aceraceae)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Leaf Morphology
Leaf Type
Simple, deciduous leaf
Shape
Palmate with 5 to 7 lobes, featuring sharp, pointed teeth along the margins
Margin
Serrate with sharply pointed teeth and deep, rounded sinuses between the main lobes
Arrangement
Opposite along the twig
Venation
Palmate venation with five primary veins radiating from the base, featuring prominent midribs and a fine reticulate network
Key Features
Opposite leaf arrangement, 5-7 pointed lobes with sharply toothed margins, milky white sap exuding from the broken petiole, and broad samaras with nearly horizontal wings
Description
A medium to large deciduous tree with a dense, rounded crown, dark furrowed bark, small greenish-yellow spring flowers in upright clusters, and winged samaras paired in obtuse angles. The foliage turns a striking yellow in autumn.
Habitat
Thrives in rich, moist, well-drained soils and adaptable to urban environments, tolerating air pollution, compacted soil, and deep shade
Native Range
Native to eastern and central Europe and southwest Asia; widely introduced and naturalized in North America, where it is often considered invasive