Common Name: Silver Maple
Scientific Name: Acer saccharinum
Location: Quadrangle
Identifying Features
This is a fast growing tree reaching 50-80 feet in height with a wide spreading root system and dense foliage. Silver Maple leaves are simple and deeply-lobed with a dark green upper leaf and a lighter ‘silvery’ underneath. In early spring this tree is one of the first to flower and by late spring the large Samara fruit (‘helicopters’) begin to drop. In autumn the leaves turn a greenish-yellow and during winter the large red flower buds are visible. Notice the long strips of bark on the trunk.
Distribution/Geography
Silver Maple is a native tree found across Northern regions through Central United States. Grown in moderate climates, these trees prefer cold weather over hot with only one species of maple found in the South. Silver Maples are hardy to both drought and wet bottomlands.
Uses
Provides habitat and food for squirrels and birds. The wood is used for lumber, paper, and is known as a tone-wood used for musical instruments.
History
Silver Maples were commonly used as trees for yards and streets but are prone to limbs breaking during rough weather conditions. Native Americans tapped the sap for sugar but only Sugar Maple is used for commercial sugar.
Tree Fact
Its twigs have an unpleasant odor when broken.