Maple - Acer - Platanoides - Drummondii

The Acer platanoides ‘Drummondii’, or variegated Norway maple, is a remarkable maple variety known for its highly ornamental foliage, which combines a beautiful green color with white or cream margins. This cultivar is prized for its unique decorative appearance and relatively compact shape. Here are some tips for caring for it:

Care

1. Planting:

   • Plant the ‘Drummondii’ maple in fertile, well-drained soil that is slightly acidic to neutral.
   • Choose a location with full sun or partial shade to encourage better foliage color.
   • Planting is ideal in spring or fall, when temperatures are mild and the soil is still warm.

2. Watering:

   • Water regularly during the first year to help establish the roots.
   • The ‘Drummondii’ maple prefers slightly moist soil but tolerates some drought once well-established.
   • Avoid overwatering, as overly wet soil can lead to root rot.

3. Fertilization:

   • A balanced fertilizer applied in early spring can help support the tree's growth.
   • Mulching around the base of the tree is recommended to maintain soil moisture and add nutrients as it decomposes.

4. Pruning:

   • Prune lightly in late winter or early spring to remove dead or poorly formed branches.
   • The ‘Drummondii’ maple has a naturally compact and well-branched shape, which reduces the need for regular pruning.

5. Winter protection:

   • Although this maple is hardy, protect young trees from cold winds and temperature shocks with mulch or a protective cover during winter.

Lighting

• Full sun to partial shade:
  • In full sun, the white leaf margins are most pronounced, and the tree has better shape and color.
  • In partial shade, the leaf variegation may be less vivid, but the tree will continue to grow properly.

Growth Characteristics

• Habit:

  • This cultivar has a rounded, compact habit, typically reaching 8 to 10 meters in height and 6 to 8 meters in width at maturity.
  • Its moderate size makes it an excellent choice for small gardens or as a street tree in urban areas.

• Growth rate:

  • Moderate to fast growth, this maple establishes quite quickly, providing pleasant shade and visual appeal throughout the year.

Decorative Assets