Grey snake-bark maple (Acer rufinerve)

Grey snake-bark maple

Also known as: Red-vein maple, Grey-budded maple

Grey snake-bark maple is a shrub that can grow into a tree with distinctive mottled, striped bark that resembles a snakeskin - hence the name. The alternative name of redvein maple is attributed to the red-brown color of the leaf veins. Like many maples, grey snake-bark maple hosts larvae of the Imperial moth. It also attracts pollinators such as bees.

Scientific classification

Species

Grey snake-bark maple (Acer rufinerve)

Maples, mangos, mahogany, citrus, and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Tree

Plant Type

10 m

Plant Height

10 m

Spread

White, Yellow, Red, Green, Pink

Stem Color

0 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring

Growth Season

Rapid

Growth Rate

Images of Grey snake-bark maple

Distribution of Grey snake-bark maple

Distribution Map

Grey snake-bark maple, a plant species prominently found in East Asian regions, has extended its reach to various parts of Europe and has been introduced to New Zealand. While it is native to and widespread in temperate forests in its region of origin, in certain areas of Europe, grey snake-bark maple is sometimes thought to be somewhat invasive, although the scale or degree to which it may influence local ecosystems remains subdued.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Quickly Identify Grey snake-bark maple

Distinctive reddish hairs along leaf veins provide vivid contrast.

Broad, three-lobed leaves measuring 3-5 inches (7.5-12.5 cm) wide.

Paired samaras shaped like helicopters for wind dispersal.

Smooth bark with narrow, longitudinal grey-white stripes for identification.

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Care Guide for Grey snake-bark maple

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

0 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Grey snake-bark maple thrives in a balanced environment of moisture and dryness and needs watering every 1-2 weeks. It prefers well-drained soil and experiences reduced water needs during dormancy in colder months, characteristic of its temperate climate habitat.

Fertilize: Potted seedlings require slow-release fertilizer. For seedlings grown in gardens, fertilizer should be applied three times yearly: early spring, early summer during the growth period, and in the fall.

Pruning: Prune grey snake-bark maple in early spring using thinning cuts to maintain shape, remove dead branches, and improve air circulation. This timing prevents sap bleeding and promotes healthy growth. Regular pruning enhances both the aesthetic appeal and overall health of the plant.

Propagation: Propagation of grey snake-bark maple can be done through grafting, cuttings, or sowing seeds. Grafting, often utilizing specific seedlings for rootstock, yields strong growth but may face affinity issues. Cuttings are slower, while seeds allow for the creation of new varieties from hybrids, though traits might vary.

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