Peeling Paperbark Maple
acer davidii
Also known as: ["Paperbark Maple","Peeling Maple"]
Overview
A deciduous tree known for its distinctive peeling, papery bark and attractive green and white striped stems.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","seasonal color change","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Sapindales |
| Family: | Sapindaceae |
| Genus: | Acer |
| Botanical Name: | Acer davidii |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in a sheltered spot with morning sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if indoor air is very dry
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter; avoid heavy clay.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily, with protection from harsh afternoon sun in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sunlight; protect from intense midday sun to prevent leaf scorch; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Morning sun is ideal; provide dappled shade in summer; rotate plant for even light exposure.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
moist, well-drained, slightly acidic loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil, perlite, and compost; avoid compacted soil; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (50–75°F or 10–24°C); tolerates mild frosts but avoid prolonged freezing.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; maintain moderate temperatures for optimal growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize in spring when new growth appears; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; reduce frequency in autumn.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or layering; softwood cuttings in summer yield best results.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is firm but not woody.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (65–75°F or 18–24°C), and indirect light.
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for good drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, plastic bags or propagator, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, disease-free cuttings; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Thinning cuts to open the canopy; heading cuts to encourage bushier growth.
Pruning Plan
Shape the plant, remove dead or crossing branches, and encourage airflow; focus on maintaining a balanced form.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, sterilized blades.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/diseased wood; make clean cuts; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Move to a pot one size larger (2–3 inches wider in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; use fresh, well-draining soil; ensure proper drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for young, rapidly growing plants.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil mix; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation; ensure proper drainage to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch in excessive heat; leaf drop or browning in cold stress; stunted growth in temperature extremes.
Cold Stress
Leaves may curl, turn brown, or drop; growth slows or halts; potential dieback of tender stems.
Solution: Protect from frost with burlap or frost cloth; move potted plants indoors; avoid sudden temperature drops.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or leaf drop; reduced vigor; potential sunburn on bark.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with foliage.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest seeds or bark of Acer davidii. The plant is not highly toxic but can cause discomfort in sensitive individuals.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of seeds or bark of Acer davidii may cause mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs. The plant is not highly toxic but can lead to discomfort if consumed in significant quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicAcer davidii contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and skin irritation upon contact. The toxicity is generally low, but ingestion of seeds or bark may lead to discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Acer davidii have any medicinal uses?
A: There is no widely documented medicinal use for Acer davidii.
Q: How fast does Acer davidii grow?
A: It is a slow to moderate grower, typically reaching heights of 20-30 feet over several years.
Q: Is Acer davidii suitable for small gardens?
A: While it can be pruned, it is best suited for medium to large gardens due to its eventual size.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Sapindaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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