Acer platanoides 'Columnare'

Tree Information

Specialities

Tolerances

Wet Soil: Medium

Dry Soil: High

Lime: High

Originally propagated in the mid-1800s at the Simon Louis Nursery in France, Acer platanoides ‘Columnare’ is a unique maple cultivar celebrated for its closed columnar canopy and upright growth. This makes it an exceptional choice for urban and inner-city landscaping. Its compact form allows for strategic placement in narrow spaces, effortlessly fitting between street utilities like lamp posts, cameras, and powerlines without excessive spread.

The dense canopy of this tree is highly wind-resistant, minimising the risk of limb breakage in high-traffic areas, while its large, vibrant green leaves are well-suited to tolerate reflected heat, allowing the tree to flourish in the shadows of tally buildings and challenging compacted soils. Known for its robust, maple-shaped foliage, Acer platanoides ‘Columnare’ is one of the first to leaf out in spring, showcasing a lush green vitality that breathes life into urban environments. Additionally, it retains its distinctive lemon yellow colour longer than many other maple varieties, adding a splash of colour to cities during autumn.

This cultivar is not only aesthetically pleasing, but also exceptionally resilient, making it a favoured choice for modern urban landscapes. Its adaptability to various soil types, including clay, loam and sandy soils, combined with its ability to withstand urban stressors like pollution and limited root space, underscores its value in city planning. With a growth habit that supports both beauty and functionality, Acer platanoides ‘Columnare’ is an ideal selection for those looking to enhance green spaces in urban settings while ensuring durability and low maintenance.

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Size

Large

7m high x 2.5m wide after 25 years

Environment

Does well in a wide range of urban environments, making it a versatile choice for cities, street planting, and compact spaces. Adapts well to tight planting spots along streets or greenspaces in parks, and residential areas. Its upright growth makes it a low-maintenance option that fits into high-density areas.

Canopy

Distinct upright growth and compact, closed crown that persists even as the tree matures. The canopy provides excellent shade coverage while maintaining a manageable profile that avoids obstruction of nearby buildings.

Foliage

Large, classic maple-shaped leaves that can reach up to 15cm in width, displaying a striking apple green hue throughout the growing season. As autumn arrives, the foliage transforms beautifully, softening into warm shades of lemon and gold, adding seasonal colour and elegance to any landscape.

Flowers

Yellow flowers in corymbs will appear before leaves unfurl in spring. Flowers develop under the leaves which protect them from the rain.

Resilience

Similar to the traditional Norway Maple, this cultivar will do well in compacted soils which do not waterlog. It is perfect for exposed planting sites and is resilient to strong winds, although it is not ideal for coastal areas. The tree tolerates a variety of soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils, and can withstand common urban stressors such as pollution, poor soil quality and restricted root space. Thrives in locations with full sun to partial shade.

Available As:

Semi-Mature, Super Semi-Mature

FAQs

What are the key characteristics of Acer platanoides 'Columnare'?

Acer platanoides ‘Columnare’ is known for its upright, columnar growth habit, making it ideal for urban landscapes. It features a dense canopy, robust maple-shaped foliage, and vibrant green leaves that transition to a striking lemon yellow in autumn.

Can Acer platanoides 'Columnare' be used for shade?

This tree provides excellent shade due to its dense canopy, making it a great choice for parks, streets, and residential areas.

Is Acer platanoides 'Columnare' suitable for small spaces?

Yes, its compact, columnar form makes it an excellent choice for small or narrow spaces, allowing for precise placement without interfering with nearby structures or utilities.