Photo of Norway Maple (Acer platanoides)

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© Quinten Wiegersma

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CC BY 4.0

Inclusion in Plant ID / Comparison Guides

This photo is featured in 3 plant ID/comparison guides:

Norway Maple (Acer platanoides) vs. Sugar Maple (Acer saccharum)

Updated January 20th, 2021

These plants are often confused due to similarity in leaf shape and occurrence in the same habitat; they are easily distinguished by samaras, flowers, mature tree bark, buds, or the presence/absence of milky sap. Leaf shape can be distinguished, but is best supplemented by other cues. Although there is much overlap in habitat, Norway maple is found on a broader range of sites, including disturbed habitats, whereas sugar maple is more limited to rich, mesic sites.

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Norway Maple (Acer platanoides) vs. Sycamore Maple (Acer pseudoplatanus)

Updated July 23rd, 2020

These two species of maple are sometimes confused. In North America, both are more common around urban areas, although Norway maple is more common. The leaf shape can be similar, but is easily distinguished by texture and margin structure. The bark on young trees is similarly smooth, but on older trees is quite distinct.

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Norway Maple (Acer platanoides) vs. Red Maple (Acer rubrum)

Updated October 25th, 2019

Norway maple and red maple are easy to distinguish at any time of year. They are mainly confused due to being common and often occurring in the same habibat, especially around humans.

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