Acer saccharinum, or silver maple, is native to Ontario and ranges throughout eastern North America and is a great selection when planting on floodplains, edges of streams or rivers, and in low woods. They prefer moist, well-drained soil, but can tolerate wet conditions and periodic flooding. They are commonly found in the nursery industry and can intake vast amounts of water that can support areas prone to poor drainage or can be integrated into rain gardens. Their shallow roots may damage nearby sidewalks and their brittle branches are prone to storm damage, making regular pruning essential. It is advisable to prune in the late spring (June), as cutting may cause sap to leak from the wounds. While this can impact the tree's appearance, it does not harm the tree.
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Planting Site and Native Range
Planting Site
Naturalization, Parks, Highway, Residential
Management Notes
Management Notes
Surface roots may heave pavement and invade sewers Weak wood makes branches vulnerable to breaking in wind and ice storms Pruning important to developing stronger branching structure
Tree Characteristics
Growth Rate
Fast (60cm or more per year)
Width
11 - 17m
Height
15 - 23m
Soil Quantity
>30 m
Leaves
Deciduous
Insects and Diseases
Insects and Diseases
No serious or common issues in the urban environment. Verticillium wilt can be an issue, which can cause branch/ limb death and severe cases can cause tree mortality.
Tree Tolerances
Soil Salt Tolerance
Sensitive
Salt Spray Tolerance
Tolerant
Flooding Tolerance
High
Drought Tolerance
High
pH Tolerance
Tolerant of acid to slightly alkaline soil (pH 5.0 to 7.5)
Shade Tolerance
Full Sun Part Shade
Plant Hardiness Zone
Zone 3 (a/b) | Zone 4 (a/b) | Zone 5 (a/b) | Zone 6 (a/b)