Silver maple

Scientific name: Acer saccharinum

Estimated tree age: 123 years old

Acer saccharinum is known by a variety of names – silver maple, creek maple, water maple, swamp maple, and many others. Similarly to its abundance of different names, the tree can be found in abundance in the United States – it is one of the most common trees in the country. While the tree prefers wetland areas, it can be grown in many kinds of soils and moisture levels, contributing to its widespread growth. The tree has gray, shaggy bark as an adult,  while in its youth it has a smoother gray appearance.

Photo from Grandview Heights TreePlotter.

The tree’s scientific name is very close to, but distinct from, the Sugar Maple, which is Acer saccharum.  In addition, some of the Silver Maple’s common names are shared with the Red Maple.

Photo from OPLIN's What Tree is It?

The flowers of the silver maple emerge well in advance of the leaves, resulting in reddish twigs that last until early spring.

Photo from OPLIN's What Tree is It?

Top side (left) and bottom side of leaf.

Photo from ODNR's Species Search.