Key features
AwardsRHS Award of Garden Merit
Final size5 x 4 metres in 20 years
FoliageGreen leaves turn orange in autumn (deciduous)
BarkPatterned bark provides year round interest, particularly in winter
SoilPrefers moist yet well-draining soil
Description
The joy of Acer capillipes is in its striated snakeskin-like bark, hence why its common name is Snake Bark Maple! The bark is smooth and olive green with cream and brown vertical stripes. The distinctively shaped, three pointed foliage, attach to the stems by a bright red petiole, and turn from green to various shades of red, orange and yellow in autumn highlighting the long green fruits. Small yellow-green flowers emerge in spring.
Despite all of these glowing attributes, it is the grey-white striped bark that is the best feature of this lovely Acer variety. The tree itself is spreading, with a vase shaped crown, with red tipped branches which arch to a gently weeping effect, making this a structurally beautiful tree. Expect an approximate height and spread of 5 x 4 metres in 20 years.
Acer capillipes was introduced from Japan in 1892 by Charles Prague Sargent, the first director of Harvard University’s Arnold Arboretum.
AKA Snake Bark Maple, Red Snakebark Maple, Kyushu Maple tree
Planting Steps
1Preparation
- Pot-grown plants can be planted at any time of year, whereas bare roots need to be planted between November and March.
- Clear weeds and grass within a metre of the planting hole.
- Dig a hole as deep as the root mass and twice as wide.
- To help your plant establish more effectively, sprinkle Rootgrow in the hole.
2Planting
- Gently loosen the roots and place into the planting hole.
- Ensure the top of the plant’s compost is flush with the level of the surrounding soil and the graft union or collar of the tree is above ground level.
- Mix 50% of the original soil with 50% compost.
- Fill in the hole, firming the soil gently.
3Last Steps
- Water generously around the base of the plant.
- If you are planting either a single stem tree or mature standard tree, we recommend adding a staking kit and rabbit guard.
Aftercare Advice
Trees and shrubs require a good watering regime for a couple of years whilst they establish. Water well and regularly through spring and summer, increasing in hot or dry weather. If planting in autumn, you may only need to water a little. It is advisable to keep the area free of competing weeds and grass during this period.
For more detailed advice and video guides, please visit our Help & Advice section.
