Paperbark Maple

COMMON NAME:  Paperbark Maple

BOTANICAL NAME:  Acer griseum
                                        

PRONUNCIATION:  A-sir GRIS-ee-um
 

TYPE:  Deciduous – Sun
 

HEIGHT:  20-30 feet

SPREAD:  15-20 feet

SPACING:  20-30 feet

ZONE:  4-8



HABIT:  Distinctive small tree with beautiful foliage and bark. Leaves are opposite and compound with three distinct coarse-edged leaflets that are dark green above the pale greenish white beneath.  Fall color is a nice-red-orange to red. Petioles are hairy and the buds in the spring look like pussy willow.  Bark is cinnamon brown and exfoliating. Leaf emergence is usually late in the spring.

CULTURE:  Slow growing but easy to maintain. Likes moist but well-drained soil. Is also fairly drought tolerant.

WATER REQUIREMENTS:  Medium

MAINTENANCE:  Low

USES:  Small to medium ornamental tree that makes a terrific specimen. This excellent tree is perfect for a courtyard and other small areas.

NOTES:  Foliage is beautiful spring through fall and the river birch-like bark is an additional treat.

NATIVE RANGE:  Central China

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