The difference between the Red Maple and the Crimson King Norway Maple lies in their leaf color and origin. Many people often mistake the Crimson King Norway Maple for a Red Maple due to its reddish-colored leaves. However, it is important to note that the Red Maple and the Crimson King Norway Maple are two distinct species with different characteristics.
The Red Maple, scientifically known as Acer rubrum, is a native tree to North America. It is widely distributed across the continent and is known for its vibrant red foliage in the fall. During the spring and summer seasons, the leaves of the Red Maple are green in color. It is only in the autumn season that these leaves turn into various shades of red, orange, and yellow, creating a stunning display of colors. The Red Maple is highly valued for its ornamental value and is a popular choice in landscaping and gardening.
On the other hand, the Crimson King Norway Maple, scientifically known as Acer platanoides ‘Crimson King’, is not native to North America. It is actually a cultivar of the Norway Maple, which is native to Europe. The Crimson King Norway Maple is a non-native species that has been widely planted across North America for its attractive foliage. Unlike the Red Maple, the Crimson King Norway Maple has reddish-colored leaves throughout the growing season, from spring to fall. This distinct feature often leads to confusion, as people mistake it for a Red Maple due to its consistent red leaf color.
In terms of appearance, the Red Maple and the Crimson King Norway Maple have some similarities. Both trees have opposite arrangement of leaves and have lobed leaf margins. However, the leaf shape and size can differ between the two species. The Red Maple typically has three to five lobes per leaf, while the Crimson King Norway Maple usually has five lobes per leaf.
It is important to note that while the Crimson King Norway Maple is a visually appealing tree with its red foliage, it is considered a non-native invasive species in some regions. It can outcompete native vegetation and disrupt natural ecosystems. In contrast, the Red Maple is a native species that supports local wildlife and contributes to the ecological balance.
To summarize, the key difference between the Red Maple and the Crimson King Norway Maple lies in their leaf color and origin. The Red Maple has green leaves in spring and summer, turning red in the fall, while the Crimson King Norway Maple has reddish-colored leaves throughout the growing season. The Red Maple is a native North American tree, while the Crimson King Norway Maple is a non-native cultivar of the Norway Maple. It is crucial to differentiate between these two species to ensure the conservation of native ecosystems and to make informed choices in landscaping and gardening practices.
