Silver Maple

General
Scientific Name: Acer Silver Maple saccharinum 
Family: Sapindaceae (Soapberry) 
Hardiness: Zone 2 
Leaves: Deciduous 
Plant Type: Tree 

Growth 
Rate: Fast 
Mature Height: >45’ 
Longevity: Medium 
Power Line: No 

Ornamental 
Flowers: Inconspicuous 
Fruit: Paired samaras (winged seeds) 
Fall Color: Yellow

A medium to large tree with spreading branches forming a variably rounded to informally spreading crown. A fast-growing tree subject to iron and manganese chlorosis on high pH soils which may cause dieback or eventual death. Often called soft maple because the wood is the softest of the maples used for lumber. Native to Minnesota, the largest tree in North Dakota is 66 feet tall with a canopy spread of 72 feet.

Light: Full sun. 
Water: Susceptibility to drought depends on genetics. 
Soil: Performs poorly on clay soils and saline/alkaline soils.

Several varieties available. 

‘Northline’ is a hardy selection introduced from Manitoba. 

‘Silver Cloud’ is a hardy selection from Manitoba, more compact and upright than ‘Northline’. 

‘Silver Queen’ is more upright in habit and reported to be essentially seedless. 

Cutleaf varieties include ‘Skinner’, ‘Beebe’ and ‘Wieri’.