Acer griseum, also known as Paperbark Maple, is a stunning species of maple that is native to central China. With beautiful peeling cinnamon bark and bright red and orange fall color, this slow-growing tree is sure to make a statement in any garden or landscape. Its trifoliate leaves are dark green above and bright glaucous blue-green beneath, with several blunt teeth on the margins. It is perhaps the most distinctive of all maples, and is widely grown as an ornamental plant in temperate regions. It is admired for its decorative exfoliating bark, with translucent pieces of which often stay attached to the branches until worn away. It also has spectacular autumn foliage which can include red, orange and pink tones. Introduced to cultivation in Europe in 1901, it was brought to North America shortly after. Recent attempts have been made to acquire new seed stock from wild populations in China because it is believed that the current gene pool of cultivated specimens is very small. While propagation of Acer griseum is somewhat difficult, this species of maple is sure to add an exotic touch to any garden or landscape.
