Skinner's Silver Maple
Scientific Name: Acer saccharinum ‘Skinner’
Family: Sapindaceae
Location on Campus: 46.895722, -96.802528
Description: A fast growing and weak-wooded tree, originated as a chance seedling in the J.H. Skinner Nursery in Topeka, KS. The tree has a pyramidal outline and deeply dissected, fine leaves. Tree is best used in wet areas or where nothing else will thrive.
Hardiness: USDA hardiness zones 3 to 9.
Natural Habitat: North America.
Mature Size: Height: 50’ to 60’, Spread: 40’ to 60’
Form (Shape): Pyramidal and weeping.
Growth Rate: Fast.
Foliage: Attractive green finely cut leaves with silver undersides that turn buttery yellow in fall.
Texture: Fine.
Flowers: Showy clusters of red flowers. Blooms in spring.
Fruit: Winged seeds (schizocarps) can be seen but are not showy. Fruit can be messy.
Light: Full sun to part shade.
Soil: Adaptable to many soils, prefers average to wet conditions. Can tolerate some standing water.
Propagation: Softwood cuttings.
Failure Patterns: Weak, brittle wood and fast growth can cause failure.
Disease and Insects: Relatively pest free. Susceptible to Verticilium wilt and anthracnose.
Landscape Use: Accent or shade tree. Highly tolerant of urban environments.
Availability: Somewhat available in trade.
