Acer Griseum – The Elegant and Distinctive Paperbark Maple
Acer Griseum, commonly known as the Paperbark Maple, is a stunning small to medium-sized ornamental tree prized for its distinctive cinnamon-coloured peeling bark and brilliant seasonal foliage. Native to central China, this slow-growing tree adds year-round interest with its textured bark, compact form, and fiery autumn colours. Ideal for gardens, urban landscapes, and specimen planting, Acer Griseum is a unique and elegant choice for any setting.
Seasonal Beauty & Growth
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Spring: The tree emerges with reddish-green trifoliate leaves, creating a fresh and delicate appearance. Small, inconspicuous yellow-green flowers also appear in spring, adding subtle seasonal charm.
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Summer: Deep green foliage maintains an attractive, lush canopy, while the tree’s signature exfoliating bark becomes more pronounced.
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Autumn: The foliage transforms into a breathtaking display of red, orange, and bronze tones, creating a fiery contrast against its rich, peeling bark.
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Winter: The tree’s cinnamon-coloured bark peels away in thin, papery layers, revealing a smooth, coppery-brown surface beneath—an exceptional feature for winter landscapes.
Structure & Form
Acer griseum is a slow-growing, compact tree that typically reaches 6–9m in height with a rounded to oval crown. Its trifoliate leaves (three leaflets per leaf) give it a delicate and graceful appearance, making it stand out from other maples. The tree's smooth, peeling bark is one of its most unique ornamental features, adding texture and visual interest throughout the year.
Perfect for Various Landscapes
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Specimen Tree – A stunning focal point in gardens or courtyards.
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Small & Formal Gardens – Its compact size and slow growth make it ideal for smaller spaces.
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Urban & Street Planting – Tolerant of pollution and adaptable to various conditions.
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Woodland & Naturalistic Gardens – Blends beautifully with other trees and shrubs, enhancing biodiversity.
Growing Conditions & Care
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Position: Thrives in full sun to partial shade.
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Soil: Prefers well-drained soil; adaptable to loamy, sandy, or clay soils.
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Hardiness: Fully hardy, tolerant of cold temperatures and resistant to most pests and diseases.
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Maintenance: Minimal pruning required; slow-growing nature ensures a tidy shape with little intervention.
Why Choose Acer Griseum?
With its elegant form, unique peeling bark, and spectacular autumn foliage, Acer Griseum is an outstanding ornamental tree that provides multi-season interest. Whether planted as a specimen, in mixed landscapes, or in urban settings, it offers beauty, resilience, and year-round appeal.
Perfect Plant Combinations
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Evergreens – Pair with Taxus baccata (English Yew) or Pinus mugo (Dwarf Pine) for contrast and winter structure.
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Flowering Shrubs – Complement with Cornus sanguinea (Dogwood) or Viburnum bodnantense for additional seasonal interest.
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Perennials – Underplant with ferns, Helleborus, or Heuchera for a layered, textured look.
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Groundcovers – Use plants like Epimedium or Pachysandra for a lush carpet beneath the tree.
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Other Deciduous Trees – Combine with Cercis canadensis (Redbud) or Amelanchier lamarckii (Juneberry) for a striking seasonal display.
Acer Griseum is a true four-season performer, bringing warmth, texture, and vibrant colour to any landscape. Whether planted in a garden, park, or urban space, it remains a timeless and elegant choice for those seeking an unforgettable ornamental tree.
Does the height include the pot?
No, we measure from the top of the pot to the tip of the plant except for some of the instant planted screens, in this case it will be stated in the description
How long does delivery take?
Most orders are delivered in just a few days, Smaller items are often sent with Parcelforce on a next day service, Larger items should allow up to 10 days due to the size of the items they often have to be sent on our own transport.
Where will you leave my plants?
We will leave your order at the front of your property, Parcelforce may
leave your items in a safe place if you let us know, Pallet couriers
will require a flat hard surface to deliver to, no gravel or soil, a
driveway or parking spot would be best. Most importantly Deliveries by
pallet courier will require access for a large truck (bin lorry sized)
to get near the delivery point. Deliveries sent on our own transport may come in a small van or larger truck.
