Norway maple

Acer platanoides, commonly known as the Norway maple, is a species of deciduous tree that is native to Europe and western Asia. It is widely cultivated as an ornamental tree in North America, where it has become naturalized in some areas.

The Norway maple typically grows to a height of 50-70 feet (15-21 meters) with a spread of 30-50 feet (9-15 meters).

The tree has a dense, rounded crown and a straight trunk with a grayish-brown bark that is deeply furrowed with age. The leaves are large, measuring 4-7 inches (10-18 cm) across, and have five lobes with smooth margins. The leaves are dark green in color and turn yellow or brown in the fall.

The Norway maple produces yellow-green flowers in the spring, which are followed by pairs of winged seeds that are 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) long. The seeds are arranged in clusters and are commonly referred to as "helicopters" due to their spinning motion when they fall from the tree.

Norway maple is tolerant of a wide range of soil conditions, including clay and alkaline soils, and is able to withstand urban pollution and drought. However, it is also considered an invasive species in some areas, as it can form dense stands that outcompete native vegetation.