About This Tree
The Acer saccharinum 'Born's Gracious', commonly known as the Silver Maple, is a deciduous tree renowned for its graceful, weeping form and rapid growth. This cultivar is particularly noted for its elegant, cascading branches that create a stunning visual effect in any landscape. Its delicate, deeply lobed leaves are light green on top with a silvery underside, providing a shimmering appearance when rustled by the wind. In the fall, the foliage transitions to a vibrant yellow, adding a burst of colour before the leaves drop for the winter.
At maturity, the Silver Maple 'Born's Gracious' can reach an impressive height of 15 to 20 meters with a spread of about 12 to 18 meters. This tree’s natural arching form makes it an excellent choice for providing shade and visual interest in larger garden spaces or parks. Its fast growth rate is advantageous for those looking to establish a mature landscape quickly, though it does require ample space to accommodate its full size.
The Silver Maple thrives in a variety of soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils, provided they are well-drained. It is highly adaptable to both wet and dry conditions but prefers moist, fertile soils for optimal growth. Full sun to partial shade is ideal for this tree, as it requires at least 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight daily to maintain its health and vigour. Notably, the Silver Maple's root system is quite extensive and can be aggressive, so it is best planted away from buildings and underground utilities. Overall, the Acer saccharinum 'Born's Gracious' is an excellent choice for those seeking a stately, fast-growing tree with unique aesthetic qualities.