Tree Information

Specialities

Tolerances

Wet Soil: Low

Dry Soil: Medium

Lime: Medium

Acer griseum, commonly known as the Paperbark Maple, was first introduced to England by the legendary plant hunter Ernst Wilson and is renowned for the elegance of its peeling bark. Cinnamon to reddish-brown in colour, the bark resembles peeling paper, creating a captivating display throughout the year. It adds not only a unique textural element, but also unveils the trees inner layers revealing a polished appearance. As the tree matures, continue to lift the canopy by removing the lower branches, exposing the magnificent bark.

This small tree reaches heights around 3m in 15 years and forms an elegant crown. The leaves are dark green in spring and summer and transform to vibrant shades of red in autumn. During the hours of the autumn sunrise its real beauty shines. With its leaves in spectacular shades of red and translucent bark ignited by the morning sun, this scorching tree can appear to be ablaze. Unlike the majority of maples, it does not have a defined leader and breaks low down, further enhancing the image of flames.

The Paperbark Maple is valued for its ease of maintenance and ability to withstand urban environments. For this reason, it makes a great park tree.

With fertile seeds being so low, the Paperbark Maple is a true advert for trees that need our assistance. Hillier continues to pioneer with the production of this fantastic tree in our British-grown field nursery.

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Size

Small

5m high x 3m wide after 25 years

Environment

A small to medium tree that is great for parks and gardens.

Canopy

Round, open, and irregular.

Foliage

Trifoliate in shape, the leaves are dark green in summer and transition to brilliant reds and vibrant crimsons in autumn.

Bark

The standout feature of this tree is its ornamental cinammon coloured bark, reminiscent of a Birch, which exfoliates over time. As it matures, the bark transitions to a rich brown-red colour.

Flowers

Yellow clusters appear in late spring to early summer.

Fruit

Small winged seeds.

Resilience

Will grow in alkaline and chalky soils, but will do best in slightly acidic conditions. For optimal establishment, it's best planted in a sheltered area with good drainage.

Wildlife

Flowers are valuable for bees and other pollinators.

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