Acer capillipes aka Japanese Striped Maple

Acer capillipes is a deciduous tree known as snakebark maple. It belongs to the Sapindaceae family. It comes from Japan's mountains, including Honshu and Shikoku. Some wild plants form large shrubs with several stems. Garden trees develop a round crown with low, arching branches. Growth is moderate, and full size takes 20–50 years. Sources give heights of 26–40 feet [8–12.2 metres]. Two university accounts place usual height at 30–35 feet [9.1–10.7 metres]. Spread varies between accounts, from 13–40 feet [4–12.2 metres].

The bark provides interest beyond the leafy season. Thin white lines run down its olive-green surface. Young branches show green to red-brown tones and white stripes. Small rusty-orange marks may also appear on the bark. The smooth leaves grow in opposite pairs along the stems. Most have three lobes, with a long central lobe. Their edges bear sharp teeth, and their bases are heart-shaped. New leaves open red, then turn green for summer. Leaf stalks and veins often retain a red tint. Autumn brings yellow, orange and red shades before leaf fall.

Small green-white flowers hang in racemes during mid-spring. Missouri Botanical Garden places bloom in April. The flowers make a modest display rather than a bold show. Slender stalks hold the blooms and later the fruit. Winged samaras follow, with wings set at a broad angle. Each fruit measures about three-quarters of an inch long. The RHS notes pink fruit, while NC State records autumn fruit interest.

This maple grows best where summers stay cool. It accepts full sun, but part shade suits it better. Shade is useful where summers become hot. Keep the soil moist while allowing excess water to drain. Acid soil is preferred, though RHS lists a wider pH range. It accepts clay, loam, sand and chalk soils. Choose a sheltered site for cultivation. Sources place it in USDA zones 5–7 and UK rating H6. Gardeners use it for shade, street planting and lawn settings. Its striped bark and autumn leaves add landscape value.

Care needs are low, but pests and diseases can occur. Aphids, scale insects, caterpillars, borers and mites may attack it. Possible diseases include Verticillium wilt, leaf spots, canker and root rot. NC State also lists powdery mildew and bacterial leaf scorch. Missouri Botanical Garden reports no major routine pest or disease trouble. Growers can raise new plants from seed or by grafting.