Acer saccharinum

Acer saccharinum, commonly known as the Silver Maple, originates from the east of America and is a fast-growing tree requiring a good amount of space in which to grow. This large shade tree has an attractive gray to dark brown bark and grows at a rapid pace. Too big for gardens, its silver underside to the leaves is shown off fully on breezy sites. Ideal for parkland planting, it thrives on most soils, including wet and clay ground.

The foliage of Acer saccharinum turns a lovely yellow in the autumn, making this a very elegant tree if left to its own devices. However, it tends to break, so pruning only produces weakened branch unions. It's best to leave Acer saccharinum well alone!

Mature height: 17-22m