Manchurian Striped Maple (Acer tegmentosum) — identification, habitat & look-alikes

Manchurian striped maple is an East Asian tree with green bark and long white stripes that stand out in winter. It is grown in U.S. gardens for its bark and bright yellow fall leaves.

Appearance

Appearance: Young bark is green with long white stripes that can remain showy as the tree grows.
Growth form: A small tree, about 20–35 ft (6–11 m) tall in cultivation.
Leaves: Leaves are broad and rounded with three to five shallow lobes, turning bright yellow in fall.
Flowers: Small yellow-green flowers hang in clusters in spring.
Fruit: Pairs of winged fruits follow the flowers and are visible in fall.

Look-alikes

striped mapleAcer pensylvanicum

Both trees have green bark with pale stripes. Manchurian striped maple usually has small basal leaf lobes, while the native U.S. striped maple often lacks them. A close photo of leafy shoots helps; bark alone may not settle it.

Why they get mixed upThey share the same striking striped-bark look.

Where it lives

Typical habitats: Gardens
Arboretums
Moist woodland sites
Range: Native to Korea, northeastern China, and the Russian Far East; grown as an ornamental tree in the United States.
Preferred conditions: In North Carolina, it is recommended for well-drained, moderately moist soil and 4–7.

Name and classification

About the name: Manchurian striped maple is also called Manchu striped maple.
Varieties and forms: The garden selection 'Joe Witt' is known for especially white stems and yellow fall leaves.

Conservation

IUCN Red List: LCLeast ConcernLow risk of extinction

14 sources