Acer saccharinum

Silver Maple

Family:  Aceraceae                 
Zone  4-8                                Average Size:  40’H x 25’W

Identification: Opposite arrangement of stems and leaves, 5 lobed, deeply dissected, coarsely toothed, white underneath; gray branches and bark; large seeded samara prominent in spring.

Note: For a fast growing shade tree in poor soil conditions, you can’t find a better species.  Unfortunately, rapid growth leads to soft, brittle wood and silver maples are frequently damaged in storms.  Disease and insects also take a toll.  The tree quickly becomes a liability.  In the future Acer x freemanii ( a cross between A. rubrum and A. saccharinum) may become a better choice.

Campus Location: none