Acer platanoides Globosum

Acer platanoides Globosum or Mop Head Maple Tree

A cultivar of the popular Norway Maple, the Mop Head Maple (Acer platanoides Globosum) has an eye-pleasing lollipop shape when fully grown. Some people also say that it resembles a kitchen mop with its floppy, round canopy growth. 
The Acer platanoides Globosum tree was first produced in Belgium in the 1870s. It rapidly gained in popularity in countries such as Germany where it became a common tree of choice in urban plantings. Over a hundred years later, many of the trees that line the streets and public park settings in Germany’s cities are the Mop Head Maple. 
The Mop Head Maple’s compact growth habits make it a frequent and popular choice in urban settings where space is limited. The tree produces a symmetrical spherical canopy and it grows relatively slow compared to other tree varieties. 
Ideal for small gardens, the Mop Head Maple tree puts on lovely show in the autumn when its leaves take on a brilliant yellow hue that is unmatched by most other trees. Anyone seeking a garden tree that is renowned for its brilliant autumn golden colour will not be disappointed with the Mop Head Maple. New foliage when emerging in Spring is red - brown changing to dark green in Summer.
The Acer platanoides Globosum tree is known for its hardiness. It grows in a wide range of soils and requires very little care to thrive. It is also ideal for windy locations or in coastal areas. For best growth results, it should be planted in full sunlight or partial shade. When first planted it enjoys evenly moist soil conditions, but once the tree is established it can withstand periods of drought. It can also endure high temperatures. The tree requires no pruning, but will tolerate tree trimming if desired. 
The tree’s small, compact size and growth habit makes it ideal for any garden or landscape setting. Some people opt to plant it beside walkways or around patios. It tolerates soil compaction well so doesn’t mind being planted next to concrete driveways or roadways. The Mop Head Maple’s shallow and rather small root system makes it a good choice for container growth.