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Silver Maple

Acer saccharinumfam. Sapindaceae
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medicinaledibletall treesedibleedible inner barkedible leafedible sapedible seedmedicinalnative amtree
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pressed specimen — silver maple
Pl. 6892 — Acer saccharinum
Acer saccharinumAcer saccharinumAcer saccharinumAcer saccharinumAcer saccharinumAcer saccharinumAcer saccharinumAcer saccharinumAcer saccharinumAcer saccharinumAcer saccharinumAcer saccharinumAcer saccharinumAcer saccharinum
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Overview

Silver Maple (Acer saccharinum) is a deciduous tree belonging to the Sapindaceae family, commonly found in the eastern United States and parts of Canada. Native to states like Alabama, Florida, Illinois, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Minnesota, New York, Oklahoma, Ontario, Québec, Tennessee, Vermont, and Wisconsin, this tree thrives in a variety of soil types, including light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay), with a pH ranging from 4 to 7.3. Known for its ornamental value, the Silver Maple features striking silver-white bark that contrasts with its dark green leaves, making it a popular choice in landscapes and natural settings. The tree's edible and medicinal properties make it a valuable addition to gardens and ecosystems. Its inner bark, leaves, sap, and seeds are all part of its edible profile, offering a range of culinary uses. Cultivation is relatively straightforward, with Silver Maple thriving in full to partial sun and moist, well-drained soils. It can grow up to 30 meters tall, making it a prominent feature in landscapes and natural settings. For propagation, seeds or inner bark cuttings can be used. While the tree has many beneficial uses, it is important to note that any medicinal use should be approached with caution and under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

Quick answers

What is Silver Maple?

Silver Maple (Acer saccharinum) is a deciduous tree belonging to the Sapindaceae family, commonly found in the eastern United States and parts of Canada.

Compare with:Acer argutum→Acer distylum→Chinese Horse Chestnut→all comparisons →
IV·b

Mixology suggestions

1 draft
Editorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Silver Maple & Lady's Bedstraw
skin
tincture
Traditionally used for skin conditions.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
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Cultivation

Silver Maple thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist, well-drained soils that are light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 3-9 and can grow up to 30 meters tall. For cultivation, ensure the soil pH ranges between 4 and 7.3 for optimal growth. Propagate through seeds or inner bark cuttings. Leaves, sap, and seed are edible parts of this tree.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
3-9
Habit
Tree
Mature size
30.0 m tall
Soil pH
4–7.3
For first-time growers

How to grow Silver Maple for the first time

8steps

Start with a Silver Maple sapling for the easiest beginner experience.

  1. 1

    What you'll need

    A young Silver Maple sapling, garden gloves, spade or shovel.

  2. 2

    Best time to plant

    Plant in spring after the last frost or early fall before the first freeze.

  3. 3

    Soil and container prep

    Choose a spot with light or partial sun. Ensure soil is well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral (pH 4-7.3).

  4. 4

    Sowing or transplanting

    Transplant the sapling in early spring or fall. Dig a hole twice as wide but not deeper than the root ball.

  5. 5

    First two weeks

    Water regularly to keep soil moist, especially during dry spells. Monitor for signs of stress like wilting.

  6. 6

    Ongoing care

    Water deeply once a week, more often in dry periods. Fertilize sparingly with slow-release fertilizer in early spring and mid-summer.

  7. 7

    Harvest or pruning

    Prune dead or damaged branches as needed. Harvest inner bark for tannins if you have the right tools and knowledge.

  8. 8

    Common mistakes

    ...

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Edible & utility

Edible parts:Inner barkLeavesSapSeed
Edible uses: Sweetener
Other uses:CompanionDyeAnimal feedPreservativeRustWind breakerLumberDynamic accumulator
Contextrange · companions · related
VII

Distribution

14 native · 10 introduced
Distribution across3 continents· 14 native· 10 introduced
Europe6 regions
introduced (6)AustriaBelgiumBulgariaGermanyHungaryPoland
Asia2 regions
introduced (2)South KoreaUzbekistan
Americas1 region
introduced (1)Ecuador
Broader regions
native:Alabama, Florida, Illinois, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Minnesota, New York, Oklahoma, Ontario, Québec, Tennessee, Vermont, Wisconsin
introduced:Czechoslovakia
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See also

8 related
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Explore further

XII

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