Discover the Beauty and Versatility of Acer Griseum: The Paperbark Maple
Acer griseum, also known as the Paperbark Maple, is a stunning and versatile tree prized for its unique beauty and adaptability. This deciduous tree is native to central China and is known for its distinctive copper-colored bark that peels away in papery layers, revealing a smooth and shiny trunk underneath.
Growth Habit
Shape: Acer griseum has a broadly spreading habit with a slightly weeping form.
Height: It typically reaches a height of 15-20 feet (4.5-6m) and a width of 15-20 feet (4.5-6m).
Width: It typically reaches a width of 15-20 feet (4.5-6m)
Foliage
Deciduous or Evergreen: Deciduous
Arrangement: Opposite
Type: Simple, lobed, and serrated
Color: Bright green in the spring, golden yellow in the fall
Size: 3-5 inches (7-13cm)
Flowers, Seeds, Fruits, and Cones
Flowers: Insignificant, small, and red, appear in April and May
Seeds: Samara, ripen in September and October
Fruits: Insignificant
Cones: Insignificant
Native Range
Central China
Hardiness Zones
Zones 4-8
Landscape Use
Acer griseum is a small to medium-sized tree that is perfect for a specimen plant, in mixed borders, or as a small lawn tree.
Its unique bark and beautiful fall color stand out in any landscape.
The tree is also well suited for use in Asian-themed gardens or as a focal point in a Zen garden.
Disease Resistance
Acer griseum is relatively disease-resistant and is not known to be affected by any significant diseases or pests.
Cultivars
'Gingerbread': A cultivar with russet-colored bark
'Ruby': A cultivar with red-purple leaves
'Sienna Glen': A cultivar with red-orange bark
Individuals Responsible for Introducing Cultivars and Varieties to the Trade
George Forrest, a Scottish botanist, discovered Acer griseum in 1904 in central China and introduced it to Europe.
E.H. Wilson, an American botanist, introduced it to the United States in the early 1900s.
Similar Plants
Acer palmatum, also known as the Japanese Maple, is a small deciduous tree similar in size and habit to Acer griseum.
Acer triflorum, also known as the Three-Flowered Maple, is another small deciduous tree that is native to Japan and is similar in size and habit to Acer griseum.
In conclusion, Acer griseum is a beautiful and versatile tree that is perfect for use in any landscape. Its unique bark and beautiful fall color stand out in any garden. It is relatively disease-resistant and is not known to be affected by any major diseases or pests. If you're interested in adding a Paperbark Maple to your landscape, check out the cultivars 'Gingerbread,' 'Ruby,' and 'Sienna Glen' for unique variations on this stunning tree.