The tree has trifoliate leaves that are dark green and toothed.
Its slow-growing habit also means it can be a relatively expensive tree to purchase as mature from garden centers.
Paperbark maples are best planted in the fall but can be planted any time the ground is not frozen.
The Spruce / Adrienne Legault
Paperbark Maple Care
Paperbark maple is a good choice in areas whereclay soilmakes other trees problematic.
It can also be planted as a lower-level tree below a towering canopy of taller trees.
Due to their slow growth, paperbarks are popular amongbonsai enthusiasts.
The Spruce / Adrienne Legault
Paperbacks do well in a variety of soil pH levels, but neutral to slightly acidic soil is ideal.
Water
A paperbark maple’s water needs are considered medium or moderate.
ensure the roots stay moist during the first two or three growing seasons.
The Spruce / Adrienne Legault
Otherwise, mature trees usually don’t need additional watering beyond natural precipitation.
They’re also considered drought-tolerant but can experience leaf scorch in very dry, hot weather.
Slow growth won’t be remedied with fertilizer.
The Spruce / Adrienne Legault
To train it as a single-trunk specimen, choose a central leader and prune away all others.
Pruning is best done as soon as the tree enters dormancy in late fall or early winter.
