Paper Bark Maple Acer griseum

Paperbark maple, a small, woody, deciduous tree in the maple family (Sapindaceae), originates from Central China. It has an upright oval habit and grows slowly to 20 to 30 feet tall and 15 to 25 feet wide. The genus name is Latin for sharp and griseum means gray, perhaps alluding to the silvery gray undersides of this tree’s leaves.     

The paperbark maple prefers full sun to partial shade in moist, well-drained soil. It will grow in a variety of soil types, including sand, loam, or clay and is adaptable to a variety of pH levels. Balled and burlapped and containerized plants transplant well in the spring. The recommended propagation strategy is by seed or  stem cuttings; young stems are the easiest to root. 

Its most striking feature is its exfoliating bark which starts out as cinnamon-brown to reddish-brown and then takes on a purple-brown color. The bark peels back in papery curls but remains on the tree instead of falling to the ground. 

This hardy tree is one of the last maples to develop fall color and the leaves persist into winter. Consider using it in a children's, nighttime, pollinator, or winter garden. Given its smaller size it is well suited as an accent tree around a patio, in a townhouse garden, or a poolside hardscape.  It is also a popular bonsai tree. 

Quick ID Hints:

• Leaves are compound, trifoliolate
• Conspicuous pubescent petiole and lower vein axils are present
• Exfoliating bark
• Buds: 3-7 mm, brownish-black, sharply pointed, scales imbricate.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: No significant problems. See potential insect and disease problem fact sheets to the left.

The Clemson Cooperative Extension Home and Garden Information Center has a factsheet on common maple diseases and insect pests.