Acer saccharinum - Maple

Acer saccharinum, also known as Silver Maple, is a large tree with rapid growth. It reaches about 25m (82ft) in height, with a spreading rounded habit and slightly pendulous branches. Its light green foliage reveals its white underside in the wind. However, strong gusts can reveal the brittle nature of the branches. For this reason, it is best to avoid planting too close to buildings. It will look majestic when planted in isolation in a large garden. It thrives in moist to wet soil, as long as its powerful root system has enough space to develop.

Native to North America, Acer saccharinum, not to be confused with Acer saccharum (Sugar Maple), is known by different names depending on the region, such as Silver Maple, Soft Maple or White Maple. It is a large tree belonging to the Sapindaceae family (formerly Aceraceae) and naturally grows along rivers, lakes, and marshy areas, where it can reach up to 35m (115ft) in height.

Acer saccharinum has a spreading rounded and irregular habit. It reaches 20 to 25m (66 to 82ft) in height and has a spread of 15m (49ft). The deciduous foliage consists of large leaves deeply divided into 5 pointed and toothed lobes, with a light green colour on the upper side and silver white on the underside. They measure 10 to 15cm (4 to 6in) in length and are carried on red petioles. In autumn, they turn a bright orange-yellow that can be seen from afar. The flowering occurs in March, before the leaves appear. The small yellow-green, nectar-producing flowers are arranged in pendulous terminal clusters. The abundant fruiting consists of winged fruits called samaras. It only appears on subjects aged at least 20 years and is highly appreciated by birds and small mammals. The bark of the branches is smooth and grey, and as it ages, it peels off in large strips.

Acer saccharinum is a vigorous, fast-growing tree that is highly resistant to severe frost. It thrives in deep and moist soil, even wet soil. It prefers rather clayey soils and dislikes excessive limestone. A well-established specimen can tolerate dry soil. Planted in isolation in a park or a large garden, it will be majestic from spring to autumn. Due to its vulnerability to wind, it is best to avoid planting it along paths or near buildings. Its root system spreads considerably both deep and wide, including at the surface. For this reason, care should also be taken to plant it at a good distance from paved areas and pipelines.