Silver Maple Tree

Silver maple (Acer saccharinum) is a large, fast-growing deciduous North American shade tree with a spreading, vase-shaped crown. Its deeply cut green leaves have pale, silvery undersides that flash in wind, followed by yellow fall color; plant it where mature roots and branches have ample room. [North Carolina State Extension](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/acer-saccharinum/common-name/silver-maple/) ## Landscape Use and Seasonal Interest Small, inconspicuous flowers appear in spring, followed by paired winged seeds; its most noticeable foliage trait is the silver underside. Silver maple is used for shade and for wet areas, including rain gardens. [NC State Extension](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/acer-saccharinum/common-name/silver-maple/) describes its wet-site uses, while [UF/IFAS Extension](https://ask.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/ST048) notes its yellow fall color. ## Size and Siting Plan for a mature tree about 50–80 feet tall and 40–60 feet wide. It grows in full sun to light shade and is suited to moist ground, including poorly drained sites. The shallow, aggressive root system can disrupt pavement and drains, and the wood is relatively weak and prone to storm or snow breakage. [UF/IFAS](https://ask.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/ST048) and [NC State Extension](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/acer-saccharinum/common-name/silver-maple/) describe these size and siting limits. ## Soil and Water Choose a moist site; silver maple can handle wet soil and acidic, poorly drained conditions. Avoid placing it over septic fields, drainage lines, or near hardscape where large roots will be a problem. ## Maintenance Allow generous root and canopy space. Keep young trees watered during establishment, and inspect for broken limbs after severe storms. Choose a different tree where a durable, compact canopy or reliable fall display is required.