Paperbark maple is a native of central China. It is not found in the wild in North America,
though it is sometimes planted in landscapes.
Identification: Trees are 20-30′ (6.1-9.1 m) tall and up to 25′ (7.6 m)
wide. The peeling, papery bark is a standout characteristic of this species. It varies from cinnamon-colored
to dark, almost purplish brown as it ages, leaving a patchwork of color gradations on the trunk and branches.
Leaves are opposite, in groups of three, serrated, green on top, pale bluish-green or silvery below,
3-6″ long ⨉ 1-2″ wide (7.6-15 ⨉ 2.5-5 cm). In the fall, they turn red/orange.
Yellow-green, inconspicuous flowers appear in April. Fruits are winged samaras; each wing is about 1″ (3 cm) long.