Acer platanoides ‘Globosum’ – A Compact Ornamental Tree with a Perfectly Rounded Crown
Acer platanoides ‘Globosum’, commonly known as the Globe Norway Maple, is a small, deciduous ornamental tree prized for its neat, spherical canopy and excellent adaptability. Unlike many trees that require regular pruning to maintain shape, ‘Globosum’ naturally forms a dense, rounded crown, making it an ideal choice for formal gardens, streetscapes, and smaller spaces. With its lush green foliage in summer and warm golden-yellow tones in autumn, this tree offers reliable structure and seasonal interest with minimal maintenance.
Why Grow Acer platanoides ‘Globosum’?
Naturally Rounded Form
One of the main attractions of Acer platanoides ‘Globosum’ is its naturally globe-shaped crown. Grafted onto a straight trunk, the canopy develops into a dense, symmetrical ball without the need for regular pruning. This makes it especially popular in formal gardens, avenues, and modern landscape designs where clean lines and uniformity are desired.
Attractive Foliage and Autumn Colour
The large, palmate leaves emerge fresh green in spring and remain rich and glossy throughout the summer. In autumn, the foliage turns warm shades of yellow to golden-orange, adding a splash of seasonal colour before leaf fall. The dense leaf cover also provides welcome shade during warmer months.
Ideal for Small Gardens and Urban Spaces
Because of its controlled size and tidy habit, ‘Globosum’ is perfectly suited to small gardens, courtyards, and urban environments. It fits comfortably where larger trees would be overwhelming, while still providing the presence and benefits of a true tree.
Tough and Reliable
As a cultivar of the Norway Maple, Acer platanoides ‘Globosum’ is known for its toughness. It tolerates pollution, compacted soils, wind, and variable weather conditions, making it a dependable choice for roadside planting and city gardens.
Low Maintenance
Once established, this tree requires very little care. Its strong structure, natural shape, and resistance to most pests and diseases make it an excellent option for gardeners seeking a low-maintenance yet elegant tree.
Height and Spread of Acer platanoides ‘Globosum’
Acer platanoides ‘Globosum’ typically reaches a height of 4–6m (12–20 feet), depending on the height of the graft, with a spread of 4–7m (15–25 feet). Growth is slow to moderate, and the tree retains its compact, rounded form throughout its life, making it easy to manage in confined spaces.
Where to Site Your Acer platanoides ‘Globosum’
This versatile tree works well in many landscape settings:
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Street and Avenue Planting: Its uniform shape and tolerance of pollution make it ideal for lining roads and driveways.
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Small Gardens and Courtyards: Perfect where space is limited but a strong architectural feature is desired.
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Formal Gardens: Complements structured designs, symmetrical layouts, and clipped hedging.
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Lawn Specimen Tree: Makes an excellent focal point when planted as a standalone tree on a lawn.
Choose a location with enough horizontal space for the crown to fully develop without obstruction.
How to Grow and Care for Your Acer platanoides ‘Globosum’
Soil
This tree is adaptable to a wide range of soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils. It prefers well-drained soil but tolerates heavier conditions better than many other maples. Incorporating organic matter at planting time will help improve soil structure and establishment.
Light
Acer platanoides ‘Globosum’ grows best in full sun to partial shade. Full sun encourages denser growth and better autumn colour, though it will still perform well in lightly shaded locations.
Watering
Water regularly during the first few years after planting to help the tree establish a strong root system. Once established, it is relatively drought-tolerant, though prolonged dry spells may require occasional deep watering.
Maintenance
Pruning
Pruning is rarely necessary, as the tree naturally maintains its rounded shape. If required, light pruning can be carried out in late summer to remove dead or crossing branches. Avoid heavy pruning, as this can disrupt the tree’s natural form.
Mulching
Apply a mulch around the base of the tree to conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and protect roots. Keep mulch clear of the trunk to prevent rot.
Pest & Disease Resistance
Acer platanoides ‘Globosum’ is generally resistant to most pests and diseases. Occasional aphids or leaf scorch may occur, particularly in hot, dry conditions, but these issues are usually minor and manageable.
Perfect Plant Combinations
Acer platanoides ‘Globosum’ pairs beautifully with a range of plants:
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Underplanting Shrubs: Shade-tolerant shrubs such as Hydrangea, Skimmia, or Boxwood work well beneath its canopy.
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Perennials: Combine with Hostas, Ferns, or Geraniums for a layered planting effect.
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Formal Hedges: Plant alongside clipped hedges like Yew or Privet for a classic, structured look.
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Spring Bulbs: Snowdrops, Crocus, and Tulips add seasonal interest before the tree comes fully into leaf.
Conclusion
Acer platanoides ‘Globosum’ is a refined, low-maintenance ornamental tree that brings structure, shade, and seasonal beauty to the garden. Its naturally rounded crown, adaptability, and resilience make it especially valuable for small gardens, urban landscapes, and formal designs. Whether used as a street tree, a focal point in a lawn, or part of a structured planting scheme, the Globe Norway Maple offers long-lasting appeal with minimal effort, making it an excellent choice for both private and public landscapes.
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