Silver Maple Tree Hardiness Zones: The silver maple can be expected to grow in Hardiness Zones 3–9. Mature Size: The silver maple grows to a height of 50–80' and a spread of 35–50' at maturity. Growth Speed: This tree grows at a fast rate, with height increases of more than 24" per year. Sun Preference: Full sun and partial shade are best for this tree, meaning it prefers a minimum of four hours of direct, unfiltered sunlight each day. Soil Preference: The silver maple grows in a wide range of soil types but prefers deep, moist, acidic soil. It can withstand some flooding and has moderate drought tolerance. Attributes: Grows very quickly, providing shade earlier than most trees. Features 3–6" leaves with 5 lobes separated by notably deep, narrow sinuses. Green on top and silvery underneath through spring and summer, they turn a pale yellow in the fall. Produces red, yellow and silver clusters of small flowers in early spring. Yields pairs of winged seed over 3" long that ripen in late spring. They are the largest seeds of all native maples. Grows in a vase shape. Has a wide-spreading root system and a trunk that can become quite massive. It is best to plant the tree away from sidewalks, foundations and sewer lines. Can be prone to limb breakage.