Key features
Final size7 x 3 metres in 20 years
FoliageGreen leaves turn orange in autumn (deciduous)
BarkPatterned bark provides year round interest
PositionFull sun to part shade
SoilPrefers moist yet well-draining soil
Description
Acer Davidii ‘Viper’ has eye catching green and silvery white striated bark that resembles snake skin. This bark makes for fantastic winter appeal when the leaves have fallen. Before then, the leaves are dark green and turn orange for Autumn. Racemes with flowers lead to winged seeds that ripen to a red-brown colour.
‘Viper’ is a broadly upright tree that will grow to a height and width of around 7 metres by 3 metres in 20 years.
This robust Acer davidi is tolerant of most soils and conditions, including poorly drained soil. It prefers moist, fertile soil and either full sun or partial shade.
AKA Snake bark maple ‘Viper’, Acer davidii VIPER ‘Mindavi’, Père David’s maple ‘Viper’
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.
