Amur Maple

Amur Maple (Acer ginnala)

Amur Maple (Acer ginnala) is a hardy, adaptable small tree or large shrub valued for its manageable size, three-lobed green leaves, and standout fall color that can shift into bright reds and oranges. It brings a refined, layered look to residential landscapes, offering a canopy that feels substantial without overwhelming the space. In spring, small fragrant flowers can appear, followed by attractive winged seed clusters that add subtle seasonal detail. With strong performance in a range of conditions and a naturally pleasing shape, Amur Maple makes an excellent focal point for smaller yards, mixed borders, and garden edges.

Distinctive Features

The foliage is the main draw, with a clean, maple-like texture that stays attractive through the growing season and finishes with reliable autumn color in many climates. It can be grown as a multi-stem shrub or trained into a small tree form, giving it flexibility for different landscape styles. The canopy has a light, graceful density that filters sunlight rather than creating heavy shade, making it easier to plant under and around than many larger trees. Winged seeds add a classic maple detail in late summer and fall, and the plant can develop a mature, established look fairly quickly.

Growing Conditions

• Sun: Full sun to part shade; best fall color in full sun.
• Soil: Adaptable; prefers well-drained soil but tolerates a range of soil types once established.
• Water: Moderate; water regularly during establishment, then as needed during extended dry spells.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 3 to 8.
• Habit: Deciduous large shrub to small tree with a rounded, spreading form; can be multi-stem or single-stem trained.
• Mature Size: About 15 to 20 feet tall and 15 to 20 feet wide.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Use as a small-scale specimen where fall color can take center stage.
• Front Yard and Foundation Scale Tree: Adds a tree look without the size and shade of larger maples.
• Mixed Border Anchor: Plant behind shrubs and perennials to add height, structure, and seasonal change.
• Screening and Edges: Use in groups for a loose seasonal screen or to define property lines.
• Courtyard and Small Gardens: Fits spaces where a traditional shade tree is too large, while still delivering canopy presence.

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Water deeply during the first one to two seasons; once established, supplemental water during drought helps maintain vigor and leaf quality.
• Mulching: Apply a 2 to 3 inch mulch layer over the root zone to conserve moisture and protect roots, keeping mulch off the stems and trunk.
• Pruning: Prune in late winter to shape, remove crossing branches, or maintain a single-trunk tree form if desired.
• Feeding: Fertilize lightly in spring if growth is slow; healthy plants in decent soil often need little feeding.
• Management: If seedlings are not desired, remove seed clusters before they mature, or thin volunteers as needed.

Why Choose Amur Maple?

• Reliable Fall Color: Delivers strong autumn reds and oranges on a compact, landscape-friendly plant.
• Adaptable and Hardy: Tolerates cold winters and performs in a wide range of growing conditions.
• Flexible Form: Works as a multi-stem shrub or can be trained into a small tree.
• Great for Smaller Landscapes: Provides canopy presence without overwhelming the yard.
• Easy Focal Point Value: Adds structure, seasonal interest, and a finished look with straightforward care.

If you want a compact ornamental tree with dependable seasonal change and strong fall color, Amur Maple offers an easy focal point and long-term landscape value for residential gardens.