Paperbark Maple

About this plant

Acer griseum, often called the Paperbark Maple, is an exquisite ornamental tree prized for its unique, exfoliating bark. As the tree matures, the outer layers of the bark curl and peel back in delicate, papery strips, revealing a rich, cinnamon-colored underbark that provides year-round visual interest, especially beautiful against a snowy backdrop. Beyond its distinctive bark, the Paperbark Maple offers exceptional seasonal appeal. Its trifoliate leaves emerge in a fresh green, turning to spectacular shades of orange, scarlet, and deep red in the fall, creating a dramatic focal point in any landscape. Ideal as a specimen tree, this slow-growing maple is perfect for smaller gardens, courtyards, or as a striking addition to a mixed border. Its graceful habit and modest size make it a versatile choice for adding elegance and lasting beauty to your outdoor space, providing unique texture and color through every season.

Installation timing

When we're in season, outside of the winter months, our goal is to get your plants installed within about two weeks. That window gives us enough time to secure your plants from our supplier and find a spot on the schedule. Throughout the process we stay in touch through notifications and your existing client portal on the main A Cut Above website, which is separate from this landscaping plants shop.

Care & maintenance

Easily grown in a variety of soils, though it prefers well-drained, fertile soil. Protect from strong winds which can damage the delicate bark. Prune in late summer or early fall to avoid sap bleed. Generally low-maintenance once established.

Watering suggestions

Proper watering is the single most important factor in your plant's survival after installation. Newly installed plants have a limited root system and rely on you for consistent moisture while they establish.

• First 2 weeks: Water deeply every day (or every other day in cooler, wet weather), soaking the root ball and surrounding soil.
• Weeks 3–12: Water deeply 2–3 times per week, adjusting for rain, heat, and soil drainage.
• After establishment: Water deeply about once a week during the growing season, and more often in extreme heat or drought.
• How to check: Stick a finger 2–3 inches into the soil near the roots — if it's dry, it's time to water. Deep, less-frequent watering encourages strong roots; shallow daily sprinkles do not.
• Avoid: Overwatering (soggy, waterlogged soil) is just as harmful as underwatering and can drown roots.

Watering needs vary by plant, season, soil, and exposure. Because proper watering is the customer's responsibility after installation, please make sure you understand and can follow these suggestions before ordering.

Good to know: plants and trees purchased from and installed by A Cut Above include a one-year limited warranty from the date of installation. Because plant survival depends heavily on proper watering and care after installation, losses caused by improper care, neglect, animal or chemical damage, or extreme weather are not covered, and we must be given the chance to inspect a struggling plant before it's removed or replaced. Coverage is one replacement per plant. Read our warranty info.