BBC Gardeners' World

Plant details

• Common Name: Snake-bark maple
• Genus: Acer
• Species: grosseri var. hersii
• Skill Level: experienced
• Exposure: full sun, partial shade
• Hardiness: hardy
• Soil type: boggy, well-drained/light
• Height: 15m
• Spread: 15m

A popular snakebark maple for small gardens, since it grows rapidly in its early years and then settles down to relatively slow expansion, and may be pruned in winter to size. An established tree is unmistakable, with its upright branches making a slim silhouette, while the green bark is striped conspicuously with white. The seeds are also distinctive, in pairs with large, broad wings, and clustered on long strings. In autumn the thick, rubbery leaves turn vivid yellow, orange and red shades. Also known as Acer hersii, or A. davidii ssp. grosseri. The Royal Horticultural Society has given it its prestigious Award of Garden Merit (AGM).