Acer platanoides

Shallow roots make it difficult to grow plants underneath; easy to transplant; tolerates air pollution and city conditions; sensitive to 2 4-D herbicide; there are plant improved cultivars. Learn more about "Acer platanoides 'Stand Fast'"

An easy growing excellent shade or street tree that tolerates heat, drought, urban conditions and pollution.  It has a symmetrical, rounded crown and has been used widely as a tree in urban areas of the United States though it is not recommended for many areas now.  Prefers full sun to partial shade, a wide range of soils but must be well trained and maintain a medium moisture level.  It freely reseeds itself, so be aware you may be pulling up seedlings.  Cultivars may offer the best choice for landscaping. It is noted that this species should be given considerable room, as it covers large areas. Some cultivars of this plant have deep purple or maroon leaves.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: No serious problems.  Susceptible to verticillium wilt. Young tree bark may suffer from sun-scald or frost damage.  Its canopy is dense and it has shallow roots which make it very challenging to grown anything under the drip line of the tree.  It can be especially bothersome planted near grass, sidewalks or walkways.

Quick ID Hints:

• opposite
• 5-lobed with sharp points
• hairs in axils of veins