Silver Maple
(Soft Maple)
Acer Saccharinum
A common species native to New Brunswick that makes an excellent shade tree. Similar to Red Maple but without the stunning foliage display in fall, however, it compensates for this with very attractive deep, lobed leaves. Large seeds mature in summer and are a valuable food source for local wildlife. Sap can be harvested to make maple syrup although it is not as productive as the Sugar Maple. Wind pollinated male and female flowers are on the same tree. Maple trees are ‘bleeders’ so prune them in the fall. If pruned in spring they will ooze sap continuously and in summer the sap will attract insects that can transmit disease through the wound. It hybridizes with Red Maple readily if planted close by.
Additional information
| Foliage | Deciduous |
|---|---|
| Locale | Native to New Brunswick, Native to North America |
| Height | Large (60-100ft) |
| Width | Wide |
| Form | Broad, Irregular |
| Growth Rate | Fast |
| Longevity | Long (over 100 years) |
| Hardiness Zones * | 3, 4, 5 |
| Sun Exposure | Full Sun (over 6 hrs), Mostly Shade (slow growth), Partial Sun (4 to 6 hrs) |
| Soil Preferences * | Slightly Acidic, Well Draining, Wet |
| Soil Tolerances | Clay, Slightly Alkaline |
| Other Tolerances | Occasional Drought, Occasional Flooding |
| Ornamental Interest | Leaves (shape) |
| Wildlife Value | Bees (flowers), Birds (fruits/seeds), Insect Pollinators (flowers), Small Mammals (fruits/seeds) |
| Human Value | Carpentry (wood), Edible (sap) |
| Seed Collection | Personally in NB |
| Planting Considerations | Messy Seed Litter, Plant away from Sewer Pipes, Prone to Ice Damage |
