Maple Bark Splitting: Normal Aging or Cause for Concern?

A 1923‑planted maple shows bark pulling away and splitting on the main trunk. The wood underneath looks firm, leaves are healthy, and no insects are visible.

Expert Verdict: Normal for Mature Maples

Older maples naturally exfoliate bark. As long as the cambium is intact, foliage is green, and there’s no sawdust, sap ooze, or insect holes, the tree is fine. Do not pull off loose bark—it will shed naturally. Forcing it can damage the cambium and invite pests.

When to Worry

• Bark loss accompanied by dieback, fungal conks, or insect frass.
• Sudden, extensive splitting after a freeze or mechanical injury.

In this case, simple monitoring is all that’s needed.