Amur Maackia

Amur Maackia (Maackia amurensis)

Amur Maackia is a compact flowering tree that brings reliable structure and summer bloom to smaller landscapes. It stays a manageable size, making it easier to fit near patios, lawns, and mixed borders than many shade trees. In midsummer, upright white flower clusters add a fresh, bright look when many trees are finished blooming. Its interesting bark and tidy canopy keep the tree looking purposeful even outside of flower season.

Distinctive Features

This deciduous tree features compound leaves that often emerge with a silvery cast in spring before maturing to medium to dark green. Dense, upright clusters of white, pea-like flowers appear in early to mid summer and can be lightly fragrant, drawing pollinators. Flat seed pods may follow and add late-season detail, while mottled, coppery to olive-toned bark can provide notable winter interest. The overall habit is rounded and refined, with strong branching that suits urban and residential settings.

Growing Conditions

• Sun: Full sun to partial shade, with best flowering and form in full sun.
• Soil: Adaptable to many soils, prefers well-drained conditions and avoids sites that stay saturated.
• Water: Moderate, water regularly during establishment, then provide supplemental water during extended drought.
• USDA Zones: 3 to 7.
• Mature Size: About 20 to 30 feet tall and 20 to 30 feet wide.
• Habit: Upright when young, maturing to a rounded canopy.
• Flowers: White, pea-like flower clusters in early to mid summer.
• Fruit: Flat seed pods that develop after flowering.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Plant as a specimen where the upright white summer blooms and distinctive bark can be appreciated from a main view.
• Small Shade Tree: Provides light to moderate shade with a canopy that fits comfortably in smaller yards.
• Street Tree: A solid option for urban settings where a medium-sized, durable tree is needed.
• Patio and Lawn Planting: Adds structure near outdoor living spaces without overwhelming the area.
• Pollinator Support: Offers summer nectar and pollen when many other woody plants are not blooming.

Low Maintenance Care

• Pruning: Prune lightly to develop strong structure while young, and avoid large cuts when possible.
• Watering: Deep water through the first one to two growing seasons to establish a resilient root system.
• Mulching: Mulch over the root zone to conserve moisture and protect roots, keeping mulch off the trunk.
• Feeding: Fertilize only if needed, as excessive feeding can push weak growth.
• Site Selection: Choose a well-drained location and avoid spots prone to prolonged flooding.

Why Choose Amur Maackia?

• Summer Bloom: Upright white flower clusters provide a midseason highlight when few trees are in flower.
• Manageable Size: A true small to medium tree that fits tighter residential spaces.
• Distinctive Bark: Mottled, coppery tones add winter interest and year-round character.
• Urban Tolerance: Often performs well in city and suburban landscapes when given sun and drainage.
• Refined Texture: Compound foliage creates a clean, finished look in mixed plantings.

If you want a compact tree with summer flowers, attractive bark, and a polished canopy, Amur Maackia is a strong choice. Give it sun, decent drainage, and a good start with consistent watering, and it will settle into an easy, dependable presence that looks good across the seasons.