Acer capillipes is a small deciduous tree native to the high elevations of Japan in the maple family (Sapindaceae), one of the snakebark maples whose principal ornamental feature is bark marked with narrow white striations on an olive-green to grey ground — a pattern that becomes more visible and more dramatic as the tree matures. Growing 30 to 35 feet tall in zones 5 to 7, it has a light, layered branching structure that contributes to its architectural quality even in leaf.

The autumn colour is reliably orange-red, performing well against the pale-striped bark in a combination that earns its position in the garden even when other maples are more spectacular. Moths visit the spring flowers. It prefers a sheltered position in partial shade, developing steadily without the heat stress that can affect more exposed sites. A refined tree best placed where the bark can be appreciated at close range — beside a path, near a window, or at the edge of a woodland garden.