Silver Maple Tree

The tree begins producing seeds at around 11 years. It has flowers which appear in dense clusters in early spring. The female flowers are red, while the male flowers are a yellow green. The fruit is a samara, 1 ¼ to 2 inches long which grows in pairs. They range in color from light brown to red and ripen between April through June. After maturity, the seeds are dispersed either by air or water. Because of its wide distribution, its early producing pollen may be important to pollen producing insects.

This tree ranges from the eastern United States and Midwest but has shown tolerance to being cultivated in other climates if properly watered in extreme heat. Seedlings must be established with full sun, but then the tree grows best in partial shade. Today the wood can be used to make paper, furniture, musical instruments, and tool handles. The seeds are a sources for squirrels, chipmunk, and birds. The trunks also tend to develop cavities which provide shelter for birds and nesting mammals.

Silver Maple Tree Hardy Planting Zone- 4b – 9a,

Bloom Season (if any) – early spring

Bloom Color – Red or yellow-green

Height at Maturity – 50 to 80 feet

Soil Type Preferred – well-drained moist soils

Sun or Shade – partial shade