Acer saccharinum

Silver Maple G. Lumis	Leaf of 'Laciniatum' Silver Maple G. Lumis	Bark of Silver Maple G. Lumis

Summary
Foliage: Deciduous broadleaf
Height: 50 to 70 feet 
Spread: 30 to 50 feet
Shape: Spreading

Summer foliage is green on top and silvery underneath.

Plant Needs
Zone: 3 to 8
Light: Partial shade to full sun
Moisture: Wet or moist
Soil Type: Sandy, loam, or clay
pH Range: 3.7 to 6.5 

Functions
Suggested uses for this plant include shade tree.

Planting Notes
Transplants readily either as a bare root tree or with roots balled and burlapped. Plant away from structures and streets to avoid interference with sewers and sidewalks.
Does well in poor soils.

Care
Remove diseased and damaged wood as needed.
See Soil Improvement

Problems
Susceptible to many insects and diseases including Verticillium wilt and other canker diseases.  Its brittle wood and poor branch development result in severe breakage during ice and wind storms.  Its root system clogs sewer lines and lifts sidewalks.

Alternatives
Consult local sources, including historic or public gardens and arboreta, regarding cultivars and related species that grow well in your area.

Cultivars of ACER SACCHARINUM
No important cultivars.

Comments
Carefully consider this tree's problems such as weak wood and invasive roots before using it.  May be used in a location with poor soil conditions requiring fast shade or as a filler until more desirable, slow growing trees become established.  Insects on Silver Maples drop "honeydew" which encourages mold on decks.

This material was developed by Carol Ness as part of the Interactive Design and Development Project funded by the Kellogg Foundation. Mary Miller, Project Director. Diane Relf, Content Specialist, Horticulture. Copyright 1989 by VCE.