SILVER MAPLE

Plant Name: Silver Maple
Scientific Name: Acer saccharinum — Silver Maple, Creek Maple, Water Maple
Mature Height: 50–70 ft
Mature Spread: 35–50 ft
Growth Rate: Fast (2–3 ft/year)
Sun: Full sun to partial shade
Water: Moderate to high; 5–10 gal per watering while establishing, 2–3 times/week during hot, dry weather; 15–25 gal per watering once established during extended dry periods
Foliage: Deeply lobed green leaves with distinctive silvery-white undersides; deciduous
Fall Color: Yellow to yellow-brown, sometimes reddish
Flower Color: Greenish-yellow to reddish flowers
Bloom Time: Late winter to early spring
Fruit: Paired winged samaras, approximately 1–2 in. long, ripening in spring
Hardiness Zones: 3–9 (−40°F to 30°F)
Features: Very fast-growing; large spreading canopy; attractive silver-backed foliage; excellent shade tree for large properties
Additional Facts: Silver Maple naturally grows in moist bottomlands and along streams. It grows rapidly when supplied with adequate moisture but develops relatively soft wood and can have weak branch attachments. It is best suited to large open areas with sufficient soil moisture.