Amur Maple

(Acer ginnala)

Amur Maple (Acer ginnala)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Acer ginnala, commonly known as Amur Maple, is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to the forest edges and riverbanks of northeastern Asia,particularly Japan, Korea, and parts of Northern China. It typically grows to 3–10 m tall, with a short trunk up to 20–40 cm in diameter and slender branches. The leaves are three-lobed, turning brilliant orange to red in autumn, providing a striking display. Yellow-green flowers, 5–8 mm in diameter, appear in spreading panicles in spring as the leaves open, though they are not particularly showy. The Amur Maple produces samaras, which are winged seeds that facilitate wind dispersal.

The Amur Maple is valued for its vibrant fall coloration and its adaptability to a range of soil conditions. It is the most cold-tolerant maple, hardy to zone 2, making it suitable for northern climates. Commonly used in urban settings, it serves well as a border shrub, small street tree, or under power lines due to its modest size. It can be a fast grower under optimal conditions, such as south-west facing sites with consistent moisture and light loamy soils. Cultivars have been developed to enhance its ornamental appeal. In cultivation, it prefers full sun to part shade, medium water, and well-drained soils. However, it is potentially invasive in some regions, such as parts of North America, and should be planted with caution outside its native range. The Royal Horticultural Society has awarded it the Award of Garden Merit for its qualities as a garden plant.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub, Tree
  • Height: 10-30 feet
  • Width: 15-20 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Fragrant, Hedges, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant, Rock Garden, Salt Tolerant, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

native to the forest edges and riverbanks of northeastern Asia,particularly Japan, Korea, and parts of Northern China

Other Names

Common Names: Ginnala Maple , Mongolischer Steppenahorn , Feuer-Ahorn , Érable Du Fleuve Amour , Amoeresdoorn , Ginnalalönn

Scientific Names: Acer ginnala , Acer tataricum subsp. ginnala , Acer tataricum var. ginnala , Acer acinatum , Acer ginnala f. coccineum , Acer ginnala f. jeonjuana , Acer ginnala var. euginnala , Acer ginnala subsp. euginnala , Acer tataricum var. laciniatum

GBIF Accepted Name: Acer tataricum subsp. ginnala (Maxim.) Wesm.