Key features
Final size5 x 4 metres in 20 years
FoliageGreen leaves turn yellow in autumn (deciduous)
SoilPrefers moist yet well-draining soil
Description
Acer davidii has striking green and creamy white striated bark. Young twigs begin deep red-purple, maturing to green and white patterns that resemble snake skin. This gives rise to the common name of Snake Bark Maple tree, although it is also known as Père David’s Maple tree in honour of a French priest who discovered it.
Attractive large, subtley lobed, mid-green leaves turn good shades of orange and yellow in autumn. When the leaves have fallen, the bold white snaking lines on the bark take centre stage and provide fantastic winter interest.
Acer davidii will form a slightly spreading shape with arching branches. This Maple tree grows to 5 x 4 meters in 20 years and can be planted in any soil with good drainage and out of cold winds.
AKA Snake Bark Maple, Snakebark Maple, Père David’s Maple
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.
