About

Acer capillipes is a small deciduous tree characterized by its distinctive white-striped young branches. The leaves are typically 3-lobed and can grow up to 12 cm long, turning shades of red and yellow in the autumn. The tree produces green flowers that hang in drooping racemes, followed by appealing pink fruits.

About the genus

Acer consists of deciduous trees or sizable shrubs featuring pairs of leaves that are frequently palmately lobed. These plants produce small flowers that give way to distinctive winged fruits. Numerous species display vibrant autumn foliage, while certain varieties also exhibit decorative stems.

Growing conditions

Sunlight
Full sun, Partial shade
Soil type
Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained, Well-drained
Aspect
North-facing, South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
Exposure
Sheltered
UK hardiness
H6

Plant details

Plant type
Trees
Habit
Columnar upright
Foliage
Deciduous
Height
8-12 metres
Spread
4-8 metres
Time to full height
20-50 years
Suggested uses
Architectural
Native to
Japan

Care notes

Cultivation
Grow in a moist but well-drained soil
Pruning
Pruning group 1
Propagation
Propagate by seed or grafting
Pest resistance
May be susceptible to Acer gall mite, aphids, caterpillars and horse chestnut scale
Disease resistance
May be susceptible to Verticillium wilt may be a problem