1 named cultivar

‘Kanzan’Kanzan Cherry

treeN. America Native

Silver Maple

Prunus saccharinum

The Story

Plant Bio

A deciduous tree known for its attractive white flowers in spring and its ability to tolerate a range of soil types.

Fast-growing shade tree with distinctive silvery undersides on its leaves. Known for weak wood and invasive roots.

Uses & Benefits:

Prunus saccharinum offers striking silvery foliage and graceful form, enhancing landscape aesthetics throughout the seasons.

Provides shade and acts as a natural windbreak, improving microclimates.

Supports local biodiversity by attracting pollinators and birds.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

780 inches

Width

504 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

50+ years

Native To

North America

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Planting

How to Grow

Select a sunny location with well-drained soil for planting.
Tuck bare-root trees into the soil, ensuring the graft union is above ground.
Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil around roots.
Mist young saplings regularly during dry spells to maintain moisture.
Fertilize with a balanced tree fertilizer in early spring and mid-summer.
Prune lightly in late winter to shape and remove damaged branches.

Pro Tip

Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply during dry spells 🌱
Prune in late winter to shape the tree
Apply a balanced fertilizer annually
Monitor for pests regularly

Don't

Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot ❌
Do not prune in late summer, avoid stressing the tree
Never skip mulching to protect roots
Avoid planting in poorly drained areas

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Mulch
Plant
Prune
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Elegant shade tree in parksSilvery foliage accent in gardensStreet roadside specimen

Companion Plants

Forsythia DogwoodRedbud MagnoliaMaple

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Silver Maple questions

What zones can Silver Maple grow in?

Silver Maple is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Silver Maple deer resistant?

Yes — Silver Maple is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Silver Maple bloom?

Silver Maple typically blooms in early spring through mid-spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Silver Maple need full sun?

Silver Maple does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.