Acer platanoides 'Globosum' Tree

Tree Information

Specialities

Tolerances

Wet Soil: Medium

Dry Soil: High

Lime: Medium

Acer platanoides ‘Globosum’ is a fantastic tree originally conceived at the nursery of the famous Belgium horticulturist Louis Van Houtte. Created in the 1870s, the trees unique form continues to be a favourite among designers today.

This variety of Norway Maple has a particularly tight global crown, which is grown and then grafted onto the trunk of a Norway Maple at 2.2m high for the vesicular tissues to join. The compact canopy is initially round in shape, but as the tree matures it reaches out a little to form a longer, rugby ball shape which can stretch to 5m across. It remains consistently dense and uniform, without any requirement for future pruning or annual maintenance schedules.

Like most Acers, it has fantastic autumn colours of yellow blended with orange and gold.

Its naturally tough, hardy acceptance of urban conditions and “plant it, forget it” maintenance requirements make it an obvious choice for city locations.

For estate entrances or avenue pathways, try planting staggered with Acer platanoides ‘Crimson Sentry’. The contrast of shape, colour and stature will create an artistic beauty.

Visit our Useful Resources for in-depth guides

Discover guides to help you with specifying your trees, caring for your trees and understanding the weights and dimensions of trees.

Useful Resources

Size

Small

4m high x 3m wide after 25 years

Environment

Due to its ability to tolerate pollution and its compact crown, it serves as an excellent choice for street planting. It has minimal soil requirements, making it suitable for areas like retail parks.

Canopy

Short branches form a compact and consistent canopy, initially presenting as a neat, rounded shape. As the tree matures, the canopy slightly flattens, taking on a broader, appearance. Pruning is generally unnecessary for this tree.

Foliage

Large leaves that span up to 18cm in width, showcasing 5-7 distinct lobes and a vibrant green hue during summer. Transitions to shades of yellow and orange come autumn.

Flowers

Yellow flowers appearing in corymbs before leaf unfurls.

Fruit

Winged keys.

Resilience

Resilient to urban pollution and thrives in less fertile soils such as chalk and clay, though not suitable for peat. Exhibits drought tolerance.

Wildlife

Valuable for bees and other pollinators.