Silver maple (Acer saccharinum)
Also known as: Water maple, White maple
Silver maple (Acer saccharinum) is a prevalent deciduous tree in the eastern United States and southeastern Canada. It typically reaches heights of 15 to 25 meters and is noted for its rapid growth and preference for sunny locations. The leaves are distinguished by their deep, angular notches between the five lobes, more pronounced than those of many other maples. Commonly referred to as 'Water maple,' it thrives in wet environments such as riverbanks and floodplain areas.
In This Article
Attributes of Silver maple
Lifespan
Perennial
Plant Type
Tree
Plant Height
15 m to 30 m
Spread
11 m to 15 m
Leaf Color
Green Yellow Red Gray Silver
Flower Size
2.5 cm
Flower Color
Yellow Green Red
Images of Silver maple
Quickly Identify Silver maple
1
Palmate leaves with deep lobes and silvery undersides, 3 to 6 inches (7.5 to 15 cm) wide.
2
Bark transitions from gray to dark brown, developing shaggy textured scales with age.
3
Rapid growth habit with weak, brittle branches prone to breakage in high winds.
4
Distinctive samara fruit with wing pairs spanning 80 to 90 degrees for wind dispersal.
5
Clustered flowers in small greenish-yellow to red blooms from February to April.
Scientific Classification of Silver maple
Phylum
Vascular plants
Class
Dicotyledons
Order
Maples, mangos, mahogany, citrus, and allies
Family
Soapberry
Genus
Maples
Species
Silver maple
Planting and Growing of Silver maple
Care Difficulty
Easy
Watering Schedule
Every 4 days
Sunlight Requirements
Full sun
Sunshine Duration
4-8 hours
Ideal Temperature
60-80℉
Soil Type
Potting Mix, Peat Mix
Soil pH
6-7.5
Fertilizer Type
Balanced
Pruning Season
Spring, Summer
Pruning Area
Branches, Leaves
Pruning Frequency
Once a year
Repotting Season
Spring
Pot Type
Plastic, Ceramic
How to Water Silver maple?
Acer saccharinum, or the silver maple, thrives best with consistent moisture to keep its roots hydrated without creating waterlogged conditions. For healthy growth, aim to water until the soil is thoroughly moistened, usually needing about 1500 ml per session for a young tree or sapling. This ensures the water reaches deeper into the soil, encouraging roots to grow downward rather than spreading out near the surface.
What are the symptoms of an underwatered Silver maple?
›
What should I do if my Silver maple is not getting enough water?
›
What are the symptoms of an overwatered Silver maple?
›
How to save an overwatered Silver maple?
›
What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Silver maple?
Acer saccharinum prefers full sun exposure but tolerates partial shade. Continuous exposure to optimal light encourages vigorous growth and maintains its signature silver-green foliage. Ensuring such conditions leads to a resilient and well-formed tree structure.
What is the ideal lighting environment for Acer saccharinum?
›
How can I ensure Acer saccharinum receives enough light?
›
What are the benefits of ideal lighting for Acer saccharinum?
›
What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Silver maple?
The ideal temperature range for Acer saccharinum, also known as Silver Maple, is between 60°F and 80°F. This range ensures optimal growth, as it provides a comfortable environment that supports the plant's physiological processes. At these temperatures, the plant can effectively photosynthesize, uptake water and nutrients, and grow vigorously.
What Soil is Best for Silver maple?
Silver Maple thrives in well-drained soils to prevent root rot. It prefers environments where water doesn't stagnate, allowing roots to breathe and nutrients to be absorbed efficiently. While well-drained, the soil should retain enough moisture to keep roots hydrated, ensuring the tree's lush foliage and steady growth rate. Sandy loam is ideal for maintaining this balance. Rich in organic matter, loamy soils supply ample nutrients necessary for the Acer saccharinum to maintain its growth vigor and brilliant autumn colors.
How to Fertilize Silver maple?
For the Acer saccharinum, fertilization needs to be balanced in order to support its rapid growth and vibrant foliage. It is recommended to apply about 0.1 pounds of nitrogen per 100 square feet every three months, while being cautious not to over-fertilize, which can lead to root burn and nutrient imbalances.
How to Prune Silver maple?
The best time to prune Acer saccharinum is during late winter or early spring when the tree is dormant. This timing helps to minimize sap bleeding and allows the tree to heal quickly as it enters its growing season. Use sharp, clean pruning shears for small branches, and loppers or a pruning saw for thicker limbs. Keeping tools well-maintained ensures cleaner cuts and reduces the risk of transmitting diseases between plants. Start by removing dead, damaged, or diseased branches, followed by any limbs growing toward the center. Trim back branches that cross or rub against others to prevent wounds. Always cut just outside the branch collar to promote proper healing.
How to Propagate Silver maple plant?
1
Collect seeds in early autumn when the tree has dropped them. Clean the seeds of any debris and store them in a cool, dry place if not sown immediately.
2
Select healthy branches from the parent plant and cut them just below a node. Ensure each cutting is about 4-6 inches long, and remove any leaves from the lower half.
3
Grafting is often done in late winter or early spring. Select compatible rootstock and scion, making sure the grafting cuts are precise. Bind them with grafting tape to ensure they unite successfully.
How to Repot Silver maple plant?
1
Look for signs like roots protruding from drainage holes or growth stagnation. These indicators suggest that your Acer saccharinum needs more space and nutrients provided by fresh soil.
2
Select a pot with drainage holes, wider than the current one. This ensures proper aeration and space for root expansion, contributing to overall plant health and growth.
3
Use sandy loam that retains moisture but drains quickly. This composition prevents root rot while providing essential nutrients and stability for Acer saccharinum.
