January 2024

Paperbark Maple is an excellent choice to plant where you need a small statured tree. This deciduous tree originates from Central China. At maturity it can reach 20 feet tall with a similar spread.

Unlike most Japanese maples, paperbark maple prefers full sun but will tolerate partial shade. Like other maples, it is best grown in deep moist but well-drained soil. 

Its most striking feature is its exfoliating bark. As the bark starts to peel back, it reveals cinnamon-brown papery curly bark which changes to a reddish-brown and finally to a purple-brown color. This feature makes paperbark maple a must have for I believe it’s more attractive during the winter months when our landscape is most void of color.

Paperbark maple is a good choice as an accent tree around a patio, in a small backyard, or near your pool. Plant a Paperbark maple anytime during the winter months. 

Here at the Botanical Garden of the Ozarks, you will find a Paperbark Maple in the Japanese Garden on the back side of koi pond. For an up close look, walk between the Japanese Garden and the Vegetable Garden where you will find it on the right tucked in the Japanese Garden where the fence opens up to reveal the koi pond.

Berni Kurz

Director of Horticulture

Botanical Garden of the Ozarks