Norway Maple

Acer platanoides 'Drummondii'

Acer platanoides 'Drummondii' is a Norway maple variety known for its bright green leaves with creamy white edges.

At a glance

Hardiness

3 – 8

Light

Full sun, Partial shade

Mature size

800 – 1200 cm tall × 600 – 900 cm wide

Garden uses & seasonal interest

Plant characteristics

Plant type

Tree

Season of interest

February - May

Where it grows best

Water

Moist, well-drained soil

What to expect

Blooms

Feb–May

Good to know

Drought tolerant
Bird friendly
Low maintenance
Columnar · Oval

Perfect for

Architectural plantingShade gardensScreeningFoundation planting

Seasonal interest

How this plant changes through the year.

Spring

Flowers
yellow
Foliage
greenwhite

Summer

Foliage
greenwhite
Fruit
green

Fall

Foliage
yellow
Fruit
brown

Care Information

Pruning
Regular pruning is not usually needed, but light shaping can be done in late winter while the tree is dormant. Dead, damaged or crossing branches can be removed to keep a strong framework and improve airflow.
Soil
Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Cultivation
Plant in sun or light afternoon shade to keep the leaf edges looking clean. Water well through the first growing season, then water during long dry spells so the soil does not completely dry out. Mulch helps hold moisture and reduces big swings between wet and dry. Pruning is best done in late winter while the tree is dormant, removing only damaged or crossing branches. After very cold winters, spring growth may start later, so hold off on heavy feeding early in the season and let new growth toughen up on its own.
Pests
This maple can attract aphids and scale insects, which may leave sticky residue on leaves and nearby surfaces. Leaf-chewing caterpillars can also show up, so leaves can be checked during the growing season if damage appears.
Diseases
Leaf problems like tar spot and powdery mildew can occur, especially in warm, humid weather. Verticillium wilt is another possible issue, so it is best not to plant where other trees have died from wilt.
Propagation
To keep the same look as the parent plant, this variety is usually propagated by grafting onto a compatible rootstock. Plants grown from seed will not look the same and may lose the white edging.

Characteristics

Type
Tree
Variegated
Yes
Family
Sapindaceae
Synonyms
Harpanthus drummondii, Hernandia voyronii, Phlox drummondii

Placement

Aspect
East, South, West, North

Timing

Fruiting Months
July - October