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| "Our landscapes
and our way of life are defined by pavement and our desire to drive in individual
cars on it. Don’t think so? Try, for just one day, to eliminate using
your personal automobile to go about doing the rituals of your daily routine.
...." - Read more from Mike's Blog |
February:
Acer griseum – Paperbark maple
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View Plant of the Month: May | June | July | August September | October November | December January | Feb | March April |
Touring
some landscapes I Have built after recent snowfalls confirmed what I
always suspected: Acer griseum – paperbark maple – is a
superb specimen for the winter landscape! The exfoliating reddish-cinnamon
colored bark stands out prominently against a snowy backdrop. But its
visual appeal is hardly limited to the winter season.
The green/blue foliage typically turns brilliant crimson red in autumn,
and contrasts nicely against its revealing bark.
In the summer season – once established -- this tree holds up
well to hot, dry conditions. I suppose the season it lacks visual appeal
– at least for the average gardener – is spring.
As is the case with most maples, the flowers – few and far between,
greenish in color and pendulous in form – are hardly show-stoppers
during the season of non-stop blooming. But don’t let that keep
you from including this tree in your landscape.
There are plenty of ‘one-trick-pony’ trees that bloom profusely
in springtime. But few that garner this accolade from plant guru Michael
Dirr: “No finer tree could be
recommended.”
Typically maturing at a height of 20-30’, with a similar spread,
but often with variable form (this is a good thing!), Acer griseum,
a native of China, is an excellent choice as a specimen tree for small
properties, within a lawn setting, or as an accent plant if planted
against an evergreen backdrop.
This plant tolerates tough urban conditions and varied soil types. For
best results, plant in loamy well drained soils in full sun. Hardy zones
4-8.
The oldest living specimen in the United States is reputed to be at
Boston’s Arnold Arboretum (see picture).
Go see it and you’ll be hooked!
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