Acer davidii Serpentine - Maple

More compact than other species, the Acer davidii 'Serpentine' is an ornamental maple whose bark resembles snake skin, reddish-purple marked with white.

This bush, also known as David's Maple, originates from China and can grow to 4 to 5 metres (13 to 16 feet). It is perfectly hardy, has a spreading habit, and has a kidney-shaped crown. The branches and bark are thin and fragile, and the bark has a reddish-purple colour that resembles snakeskin with white stripes. The deciduous leaves are opposite and have 3 or 9 oval leaflets, which turn from red to light green before changing to yellow in autumn. In June, it produces insignificant flowers that eventually give way to winged fruits measuring 3 to 5 cm (1.2 to 2 inches) in length.

The Acer davidii 'Serpentine', easy to grow, thrives in any moist, fertile, well-worked and well-drained soil, in a sunny but not scorching or partially shaded location. Find a spot protected from strong winds for it.

The fast-growing Acer davidii 'Serpentine' is ideal for small gardens due to its compact size, for example in a perennial or ericaeous bed where it will provide shade for hostas or dicentras.

Tip: Prune every 3 to 5 years to balance the branches and maintain an attractive shape.