Paperbark Maple (Acer griseum) Growing & Care Guide for Gardeners

Article by Dean Ravenscroft, Ph.D. - Updated 9th Nov 2023

Acer griseum, also known as the Paperbark maple, is a tree species native to China. This popular small shade tree belongs to the Sapindaceae family (maples), and is noted for its fall colors and peeling copper-toned bark. Plants grow well in USDA zones 4 to 8, and is rated H5 hardy by the RHS.

Paperbark Maple photograph by S. Rae; CC.

This deciduous tree is relatively small in stature. Most Paperbark maples only reach 15 to 30 feet (4.5 to 9 m) tall when fully mature.

Acer griseum - Paperbark Maple photograph by Wendy Cutler, CC.

Because of its small height and width, this tree makes an excellent addition to any modest-sized backyard.

Garden enthusiasts love it for its four-season foliage. Spring and summer reveal dark green leaves complemented by a pop of yellow from tiny blooming flowers.

In the fall, the foliage changes to a reddish-orange hue.

Winter causes the leaves to shed from their branches, but the exfoliating curls of the cinnamon colored bark makes a statement against a snowy background.

Popular locations for planting the Paperbark maple include being near a deck, patio, or kitchen window. This is because these allow viewers to appreciate their seasonal beauty.

Acer griseum photograph by F. D. Richards, CC.

Gardener's HQ Guide to Growing Paperbark Maple

The Paperbark maple is a low maintenance slow growing plant easily grown in moist, well-drained soils.

Acer griseum can also tolerate clay soils and soils and a variety of pH levels.

This deciduous tree is capable of growing in direct sun or part shade.

During the first three growing seasons, it is important that the roots stay hydrated.

Paperbark Maple trees in the Winter snow, image by the Plant Image Library; CC.

Early spring is the best time to feed the tree with a granular fertilizer.

Apart from the initial planting phase and the periodically removing of any diseased or damaged wood, the Paperbark maple needs little pruning.

If pruning is required, the best time of year to trim back the tree is in the late autumn / fall or early winter when the tree enters its dormant period.

Cultivating Form: Pruning and Correcting Leans

Japanese Maple care involves both precise pruning and strategic staking to ensure your tree's form and health are optimal.

Pruning Practices for Paperbark Maples

Paperbark maples generally do not need a lot of pruning. So it is usually done with the goal of maintaining the tree's natural shape, improving its health, and correcting any structural issues.

The best time to prune a Paperbark maple is during the dormant season, typically in late winter, before the spring growth starts. This timing should hopefully prevent/limit sap bleeding, which can happen if pruned in late winter or early spring. Pruning at this time makes it much easier to see the tree's structure (without leaves), and there is less risk of transmitting diseases via the pruning cuts

In milder climates, you might find the most suitable time to prune to be in mid to late winter, such as January or February. Hopefully this will allow you to prune when the tree is fully dormant, but before the sap starts to flow heavily. Check the buds on the tree: If they're not swollen, and the weather forecast doesn't predict unusual warmth (that could start off an early sap flow) then it should hopefully be safe to prune.

Pruning the leader of a young maple can encourage the development of side branches and a more rounded crown. But be careful, when you cut the leader, do so above a set of strong lateral branches (these will take over the leader's role).

Instead of topping the tree (cutting off the top of the leader) you may wish to consider using selective pruning to promote a stronger, more balanced structure. Remove any dead, diseased, or rubbing branches. Thin out the crown to let in light and air; this can stimulate growth throughout the tree.

After pruning, ensure that the tree is well-watered and mulched (keep the mulch away from the trunk) as this should help it recover and thrive.

As improper pruning can damage the tree and even lead to its death, it's may be a good idea to consult a certified arborist before making significant cuts. They will be able to provide tailored advice and can demonstrate proper pruning techniques.

Correcting the Lean Angle: Straightening Your Paperbark Maple

If your tree is leaning towards the sun, then it's likely trying to get more light (phototropism). Gradual staking can help to correct the lean angle, but this should be done over time over a growing season.

Paperbark maple leaning towards the light, Photograph by Jeff Brody.

When staking, be careful not to damage the tree's bark or roots. To gradually stake your leaning tree, you'll want to use sturdy stakes placed on the opposite side of the lean, outside the root zone.

Secure the tree to the stakes using broad flexible straps, these should allow some movement without damaging the bark. Over several months, incrementally tighten these straps to encourage the tree to straighten. Keep an eye on the straps to ensure they're not constricting the growing tree.

After a year or two's growing season's, when the tree is stable and able to stand upright on its own, the stakes can be removed. Ideally, monitor the tree after the first year's growing season, if it has established strong roots and has grown strong enough to support itself, then you can remove the stakes at this stage (so as to prevent impeding its development). This process helps the tree to develop a strong trunk and root system by allowing natural movement while still correcting the lean.

I hope that you enjoyed this guide on how to grow Acer griseum .You may also enjoy the following growing guides: How to grow Acer Plants and Acer negundo.