Silver Maple
Fast-growing deciduous tree reaching 15-25 m tall with a spread of 11-15 m. Characterized by deeply lobed leaves with silvery undersides, creating a shimmering effect in wind. Produces small, reddish-yellow flowers in early spring and winged seeds in late spring. Prefers moist, slightly acidic soils and full sun to partial shade. Quick to establish but has weak wood prone to storm damage. Provides food and habitat for various wildlife species. Often used for quick shade in landscaping.
Plant Details
Bloom Colour: Yellow-green
Bloom Time: Early Spring
Sun Requirements: Sun to Part-Shade
Moisture: Moist to Wet
Phenology: Flower buds swell in March, blooming in early April before leaves. Leaves emerge light green in late April, reaching full size by mid-May. Samaras mature and drop in June. Fall color yellow, appearing in early October, leaves dropping by late October. Light gray, flaky bark visible in winter.
Wildlife Value: Seeds heavily used by songbirds and small mammals; good nesting sites for birds including woodpeckers; sap used by yellow-bellied sapsuckers; bark eaten by beaver and rabbits
Habit Over Time: Fast-growing tree with a broad, spreading crown and pendulous branches. Develops multiple trunks if not pruned to a single leader. Surface roots can be extensive and competitive, making understory planting challenging. Branches are somewhat brittle and prone to breakage, creating natural gaps in the canopy that allow light penetration. Produces abundant samara seeds that germinate readily in disturbed soil.
Height: Tall (50-80 feet)