Paperbark Maple

Acer griseum

$27.00

| Hardiness Zones 5-8

A graceful, slow-growing small tree with an upright oval to rounded form, Acer griseum earns its place in the landscape through year-round interest and quiet charm. Most admired for its striking, cinnamon to reddish-brown bark that begins exfoliating within two to three years, this feature becomes increasingly beautiful with age—revealing curling layers of papery bark that glow in the low winter light, making it a standout in the dormant garden.

Its trifoliate leaves lend a soft texture to the canopy, emerging a fresh green in spring, deepening in summer, and finishing with brilliant shades of scarlet and orange in autumn. Compact and well-behaved, this is an excellent choice for a small lawn specimen, featured in a shrub border, or planted in loose groupings to enhance its natural form.

Adaptable and undemanding, Paperbark Maple tolerates both acidic and alkaline soils, and performs well in well-drained or heavier clay conditions, making it as resilient as it is refined.
Plant Specs
  • Zones: 5 - 8
  • Sun: Full Sun and Part Shade
  • Soil: Well-drained, Basic Soils, Acid, and Clay
  • Height at Maturity: 20 - 30 Feet
  • Spread at Maturity: 15 - 25 Feet
  • Growth Rate: Slow

Deciduous
Flower/Foliage

greenish, inconspicious
Care Info

Read full care instruction manual here.

Light:

Thrives in full sun to partial shade. Full sun encourages the best fall color and bark development, though some afternoon shade is appreciated in hotter climates.

Soil:

Prefers well-drained soil but is adaptable to a range of conditions, including clay. Tolerates both acidic and alkaline pH levels. Avoid waterlogged soils.

Watering:

Water regularly during the first few years to establish a deep root system. Once established, it is moderately drought tolerant but benefits from occasional deep watering during prolonged dry spells.

Mulching:

Apply a 2–3 inch layer of mulch around the base (keeping it a few inches away from the trunk) to help retain soil moisture and regulate temperature.

Pruning:

Minimal pruning is needed. If shaping or thinning is desired, prune in late winter to early spring before new growth emerges. Avoid heavy pruning, as this tree maintains a naturally attractive form.

Fertilizing:

Generally not required in rich soil. If desired, apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring.

Pests & Diseases:

Relatively pest- and disease-free. Watch for occasional leaf scorch in hot, dry conditions, especially on young trees.

Additional Tips:

Bark exfoliation begins around the second or third year and becomes more prominent with age. Plant it where its peeling bark and fall foliage can be fully appreciated—ideally near a path, patio, or window.

New: Schedule Delayed Shipping in your Cart

Size: 1 Quart

Pickup available at Aiken Nursery

Usually ready in 2-4 days

Size: 1 Quart

Grown in Aiken, South Carolina

At Woodlanders, we are committed to quality.

All our plant material is carefully propagated, grown, and nurtured at our humble nursery in Aiken, South Carolina.

Learn more about Woodlanders here.

Here’s a closer look at how we produce our plants:
from rooting to shipping, our top priority is ensuring you receive healthy, thriving plants for your garden’s success.

The majority of our plants are carefully cultivated from rooted cuttings, while we also utilize propagation methods such as seed, air layering, and grafting, thoughtfully chosen to suit each plant’s unique needs.

Our plants are cultivated using sustainable practices, including organic soil blends and eco-friendly pest management, ensuring they thrive while minimizing environmental impact.

We are proud to contribute to local biodiversity through ongoing donations to the Aiken Arboretum and support for local wildlife conservation efforts, helping to preserve and enhance our community’s natural ecosystems.

Plant Success Tip #1

Unpack Promptly

Carefully unpack your plant as soon as it arrives. Check the roots and soil to ensure they are still moist. If the roots feel dry, lightly mist or water them before proceeding with planting or temporary storage.

Plant Success Tip #2

Acclimate Your Plant

Allow your plant to adjust to its new environment by placing it in a sheltered spot for a day or two before planting, especially if it has traveled a long distance. Avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures right away.

Plant Success Tip #3

Follow Planting and Care Instructions

Plant your new arrival as soon as possible, following the specific care guidelines provided. If planting outdoors isn’t immediately possible, temporarily pot it in well-draining soil to maintain health until conditions are suitable.

Read Care Instructions

Frequently Asked Questions

What to expect upon delivery

All our plants are sold in 1-gallon sizes, though the height of each plant can vary depending on its growth rate and seasonality, typically ranging from 1/2 to 2.5 feet.

Each plant is carefully packaged with its roots enclosed in a secure plastic bag containing moist soil, forming a compact root ball. To ensure safe transport, the box is padded with recycled newspaper, providing both stability and eco-friendly protection from weather during shipping.
What is your return policy?

Review our full return policy information on our SHIPPING AND RETURNS POLICY page.
What payment methods can I use?

We offer 35 different payment methods including major providers like Mastercard, Visa, PayPal, American Express and Diners as well as many different local payment methods including Klarna, iDEAL, AliPay, Sofort, giropay, and many more.
Can I make changes to my order after it’s been placed?

At Woodlanders, we strive to fulfill orders as quickly as possible. Therefore, we can only accommodate changes to your order within the first 24 hours after it has been placed. These changes include adding or removing products and modifying the delivery address. If you need to make any changes or if there has been a mistake with your order information, please reach out to us promptly via our CONTACT page with your order number for the quickest resolution.

Your satisfaction is our priority, and we appreciate your understanding and cooperation.