Acer griseum is reported to tolerate full sun though it prefers some shade. Has anyone seen this tree thrive in full sun in the Pacific NW zone 8. The soil is average clay, winter wet, summer dry.
it will tolerate full sun but, if you encounter a long, hot, exceptionally dry summer and spring it may defoliate prematurely in self defense and may exhibit damage from sunscald on the bark. Best used as an understory tree or in a partial shade location. As for the soil conditions... don't dig a big hole in the clay and think a tree rootball in there, it will perish. try here for good info on planting: http://www.treesaregood.com/treecare/tree_planting.asp
I hate to be contrary, but... Acer griseum is perfectly happy in full sun in the Vancouver. Please see the specimen in the E.H. Lohbrunner Alpine Garden here at the Botanical Garden. It was planted in 1976 and has never, to my knowledge, ever turned a hair. Check it out here.
