The paperbark maple (Acer griseum) is a lovely, slow-growing tree that thrives in central Ohio yards and gardens. The small, ornamental tree offers multiple seasons of color and interest. The ...

Context Explanation

Acer griseum, commonly called paperbark maple, is a small, deciduous, oval to oval-rounded tree with slender upright branching. It is particularly noted for its exfoliating copper orange to cinnamon reddish/brown bark and its showy orange to red fall color. For a smaller tree with year-round interest, choose the paperbark maple (Acer griseum). Its reddish-brown bark is beautiful in the winter landscape.

Insight Material

Acer griseum was introduced to cultivation in Europe in 1901 by Ernest Henry Wilson for the Veitch Nurseries in the UK, and to North America shortly after. It is one of many species of maples widely grown as ornamental plants in temperate regions. Renowned for its stunning exfoliating bark and vibrant autumn foliage, Acer griseum (Paperbark Maple) is a prized deciduous tree. Native to central China, Acer griseum was introduced to Western gardens in 1901 and has since become one of the most prized ornamental trees. The species name β€œgriseum” refers to the gray color of the bark before it begins its spectacular peeling process.

Final Conclusion

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. Acer can be deciduous trees or large shrubs with paired, often palmately-lobed leaves and small flowers followed by characteristic winged fruits. Many have fine autumn colour, and some have ornamental stems