Acer griseum

Of all the small trees in cultivation, this maple stands supreme with gorgeous, peeling cinnamon coloured bark and fiery red and orange autumn colours. The autumn colour and peeling bark gives Acer griseum year round interest and as it is slow growing, makes it an ideal small specimen tree for gardens with limited space.

Acer griseum was introduced to the United Kingdom from China in 1901 and is very hardy although it does grow better with shelter from strong winds. Unlike most Japanese maples, Acer griseum will also grow on an alkaline soil or even on chalk.

• Position: Full sun or partial shade.
• Soil: Any alkaline to slightly acid, fertile soil. Acer griseum will tolerate chalky soils
• Hardiness: Hardy. Acer griseum requires shelter from cold winter winds where possible.
• Rate of Growth: Slow to moderate. Not for instant gratification as the bark usually takes several years to start peeling properly.
• Habit: Acer griseum grows to be a small, branching tree.
  • Height: 10 m (32 ft) / up to 3 m (10 ft) after 10 years
  • Spread: 6 m (20 ft) / up to 2.5 m (8 ft) after 10 years