Silver Maple

Acer saccharinum

A native tree of North America, Silver Maple is a fast growing species which prefers growing close to water. Mature trees can reach some 38 metres in height.  Its leaves are around 7 -14 cm long and have five lobes which are separated by deep, sharp pointed spaces. They are light green above and a pale silver beneath.  The bark is light grey and as the tree ages the bark breaks into thin strips.  In Britain the tree is sometimes planted in parks and gardens.   The tree produces clusters of green/red flowers in the spring, before any leaves have appeared.