Acer Griseum

Description

Acer Griseum, commonly known as Paperbark Maple, is a small deciduous tree that is native to central China. Its leaves are trifoliate and have serrated edges. In the autumn, the leaves turn a beautiful shade of reddish-orange. The most distinctive feature of Acer Griseum is its bark, which peels away in thin, papery sheets, revealing a cinnamon-colored layer underneath. This tree is highly prized for its ornamental value and is popularly grown as an accent or specimen plant in gardens and landscapes.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Acer Griseum is a small tree that typically grows to a height of 20-30 feet and a width of 15-25 feet. Its leaves are trifoliate, with each leaflet measuring 2-4 inches long and 1-2 inches wide. The leaves are dark green in color during the growing season and turn a beautiful reddish-orange in the fall. The bark of Acer Griseum is its most distinctive feature. It peels away in thin, papery sheets, revealing a cinnamon-colored layer underneath. The bark is highly ornamental and adds winter interest to the garden.

Care Guide

Acer Griseum is a relatively easy tree to care for. It prefers regular watering and well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Fertilize the tree in the spring with a slow-release, balanced fertilizer. Acer Griseum prefers partial shade to full sun and is hardy in USDA zones 4-8. Prune the tree in the late winter or early spring, before new growth begins.

Water

Acer Griseum prefers regular watering, especially during the hot summer months. Water the tree deeply once a week, making sure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged.

Fertilization

Fertilize Acer Griseum in the spring with a slow-release, balanced fertilizer. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application rates.

Soil

Acer Griseum prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Amend the soil with compost or other organic matter before planting.

Sunlight

Acer Griseum prefers partial shade to full sun. In hot climates, it benefits from some afternoon shade.

Hardiness Zones

Acer Griseum is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.

Common Pests & Diseases

Acer Griseum is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it may be susceptible to verticillium wilt, a fungal disease that causes the leaves to wilt and die. To prevent this disease, plant Acer Griseum in well-draining soil and avoid overwatering. Japanese beetles and aphids may also be a problem. Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Habitat

Acer Griseum is native to central China, where it grows in mountainous regions at elevations of 4,000-7,000 feet. It prefers cool, moist climates with well-draining soil and partial shade.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Acer Griseum a fast-growing tree?

A: No, Acer Griseum is a slow-growing tree that typically grows 6-12 inches per year.

Q: Can Acer Griseum be grown in a container?

A: Yes, Acer Griseum can be grown in a container, but it may not reach its full size potential.

Q: When is the best time to prune Acer Griseum?

A: Prune Acer Griseum in the late winter or early spring, before new growth begins.

Q: Does Acer Griseum have any special soil requirements?

A: Acer Griseum prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Amend the soil with compost or other organic matter before planting.

Related Plants

• Acer Palmatum
• Acer Rubrum
• Acer Saccharinum
• Acer Negundo
• Acer Campestre

References

• “Acer griseum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 25, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=m130.
• Courtney, Paul. “Acer griseum.” Fine Gardening. Accessed August 25, 2021. https://www.finegardening.com/plant/acer-griseum-paperbark-maple.
• “Paperbark Maple.” The Morton Arboretum. Accessed August 25, 2021. https://www.mortonarb.org/trees-plants/tree-plant-descriptions/paperbark-maple.