Paperbark Maple

The Paperbark Maple is a little-known tree that is eagerly sought out by knowledgeable gardeners for its beautiful and unique peeling bark. Always looking different, and in striking shades of orange and cinnamon, the bark is the main, but not the only, feature of this tree. It has spectacular fall coloring, turning dramatic shades of red, orange and ever pink as the cooler weather arrives. It grows into the perfect small tree for smaller gardens, or as an accent tree in larger ones. It will grow steadily to around 10 or 20 feet tall, with an upright, attractive oval form. Eventually it may reach 30 feet, but it will never grow into a giant tree. This makes it ideal for a smaller space. It can also be grown for years in a large pot, as a unique patio specimen, and it is very popular as a bonsai tree too.

• Unique peeling orange-cinnamon bark
• Spectacular fall colors or red, orange and pink
• Perfect small shade or decorative tree
• Problem-free and easy to grow
• Rarely-available connoisseurs tree

Either a sunny or partially-shaded spot is ideal to grow the Paperbark Maple. It will grow in any kind of soil that is well-drained but not dry. It has a slight, but not very significant, preference for slightly acidic soils. This tree does need regular watering, even when older, as it is not particularly drought-resistant. It has no pests or diseases, and needs no special care or pruning. It is best to prune away lower branches as it grows, so that it develops a clear lower trunk and lower branches. This will show off the beautiful bark most effectively.