Introduction

This small deciduous tree will impress any gardener or landscape professional with its wonders of peeling bark and brilliant fall colors. As it is native to central China, Paperbark Maple has reached a lot of different gardens in the world due to its unique features and ease of maintenance. The following article shall cover the general information on the Paperbark Maple: history, physical description, growing conditions, and how to plant and care for them.

Historical Background

The Paperbark Maple was first discovered by Western botanists in the late 19th century. It was introduced into Europe and North America in the early 20th century by that great plant explorer Ernest Henry Wilson. This absolutely invaluable botanical explorer, who introduced hundreds of various species of plants into cultivation from China, immediately saw the potential of Acer griseum as a garden ornamental, and he himself introduced it to Western horticulturists.

Physical Description

The most striking feature of a Paperbark Maple is its cinnamon-colored, peeling bark. The mature tree’s bark exfoliates in thin, papery layers and shows a smooth, reddish-brown surface below. Although the peeling bark gives interest throughout the year, it is especially true during winter when the other features are not so prominent in the tree.

The leaves are trifoliate; a single leaf is comprised of three leaflets. They are rich green, turning brilliant shades of red, orange, and yellow in fall, which is one of the reasons Paperbark Maple is so highly prized in gardening.

Optimal Growing Conditions

Climate:

Paperbark Maple is hardy in USDA zones 4 through 8. This means the tree is suitable for a temperate climate, and cold winters do not seem to bother it much. It will basically grow in almost every part of North America and most of Europe.

Soil:

It is a slight acid to neutral soil-lover, usually in well-drained soils. It will tolerate highly varying soils, from sandy to clay, but the best are loamy with high contents of organic matter. Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot and other problems caused by excess water.

Light:

Paperbark maples will grow in full sun to partial shade. Afternoon shade in the hotter parts of the South prevents leaf scorch and keeps the tree at its best. The shade also prevents the tree from showing fall colors as vibrantly.

Watering:

This young paperbark maple will need regular watering while developing a robust root system. Once mature they are relatively drought tolerant, though they will appreciate occasional deep watering when the weather has been dry for extended periods. Mulching around the base helps retain soil moisture and regulate temperature.

Planting a Paperbark Maple Tree

Site Selection

Choose a plant site that has enough room to accommodate the tree’s full growth. Paperbark Maples generally grow about 20-30 feet in height and 15-25 feet in spread. Consider mature size when selecting the planting location to avoid placement too close to buildings, power lines, and other trees.

Planting Process

1. Digging the Hole: The hole should be dug approximately twice the width and just slightly shallower than the root ball of the tree. This will allow for the roots to splay out and establish themselves easily.
2. Soil Preparation: Mix the dug soil with compost or well-rotted manure to improve the fertility and structure of the soil. Indeed, the fertilized soil is going to provide the establishment phase with the necessary nutrition.
3. Planting the Tree: Put the tree in the hole, making sure that the top of the root ball is more or less level or a little higher than the surrounding soil. Fill up the hole with enriched soil, tamping gently around the root ball to avoid air pockets.
4. Watering: Water well to settle the soil and to provide an initial soaking. Water regularly during the first growing season to enable the tree to establish a good root system.
5. Mulching: Mulch the area around the base of the tree with a 2-3-inch layer. Mulch retains moisture, suppresses weeds, and shelters roots from extremes of temperature.

Caring for a Paperbark Maple

Pruning

This tree, the Paperbark Maple, does not require heavy pruning, although occasional maintenance would keep it looking its best and in good health. Thin out dead, damaged, or sickly branches as needed. Do this at the end of winter or early in spring before new growth starts.

Fertilization

Paperbark maples are not going to be fertilizer-hungry; an annual application of a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the early spring will keep it growing as healthily as possible. Be careful not to overfertilize; this will spur an overabundance of foliage at the expense of the tree’s health.

Pests and Diseases

Paperbark maples are generally fairly free of serious pests and diseases, though they do occasionally suffer from the usual problems associated with aphids, scale, and fungal diseases like mildew. These are easily contained and prevented from causing excess damage by regular monitoring and prompt action. In most cases, natural controls and environmental checks are adequate to hold pest populations below damaging levels.

Landscaping Uses

Some unique features of paperbark maple make it an element of versatility in many landscape applications. The size is compact, and it has special value as a specimen tree in small gardens or urban landscapes because of its bark. This can be used as a focal point in a mixed border, part of a woodland garden, or planted in groups for added drama.

Conclusion

This paperbark maple is one of the more interesting trees, providing interest throughout the growing season with its peeling bark and exceptionally bright fall color. Under proper growing conditions and with proper care, it will be sure to add beauty and grace to a wide range of landscapes. It’s definitely worth a try for an experienced or brand-new gardener looking to grow something unique in their garden.