Field maple and Norway maple are often considered for the same spot in the garden (shade, specimen, pollinator friendly). The data below shows where they differ: size, hardiness, care, toxicity and price.
Acer campestre 4.5 m × 3 m after 10 years
A native, undemanding small to medium tree that copes with drought, lime and clay, city air and hard clipping, and turns a good yellow in autumn. Left…
Acer platanoides 8 m × 6 m after 10 years
A large native shade tree with a dense, rounded crown that flowers yellowish green and honey-scented before the leaves open and turns golden yellow in…
Norway maple is hardier: down to -34 °C, against -29 °C for Field maple.
Field maple tolerates drought better than Norway maple.
Field maple needs less care than Norway maple.
Field maple is cheaper: about €26 at the size usually planted, against about €60 for Norway maple.
|
Feature
|
Field maple
|
Norway maple
|
|---|---|---|
| Group | Small tree | Large tree |
| Size after 10 years | 4.5 m × 3 m | 8 m × 6 m |
| Ultimate size | 8–15 m × 8–11 m | 12–30 m × 9–20 m |
| Growth rate | Medium | Fast |
| Light | Full sun, Part shade | Full sun, Part shade |
| Soil | Average garden soil, Clay, Calcareous | Average garden soil, Clay, Sandy, Calcareous, Acidic |
| Hardiness | down to -29 °C (USDA 4, RHS H7) | down to -34 °C (USDA 4, RHS H7) |
| Foliage | Deciduous | Deciduous |
| Flowering | April–May, green, yellow | April–May, yellow, green |
| Water need | Medium | Medium |
| Drought tolerance | High | Medium |
| Maintenance | Low | Medium |
| Planting distance | 600 cm | 1000 cm |
| For dogs | Non-toxic (uncertain) | no data |
| For cats | Non-toxic (uncertain) | no data |
| For children | Non-toxic (uncertain) | no data |
| Typical price | approx. €26 | approx. €60 |
Prices are rounded, indicative values. Toxicity data is for information only. If your pet or child has eaten a plant, contact a vet or a doctor. Data updated: October 8, 2026
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