Amur Maple

The Amur Maple (Acer ginnala, now generally classified as Acer tataricum subsp. ginnala) is a small maple especially valued for its spectacular red to orange autumn colour. Its moderate size makes it particularly suitable for gardens where larger maples would become too imposing.

It naturally forms a small tree or large shrub, sometimes with several stems, developing a rounded and fairly dense crown. Its green leaves are distinctive, with a noticeably elongated central lobe, and turn from yellow-orange to bright scarlet red in autumn.

In spring, it produces small creamy-white to greenish flowers that attract pollinating insects. These are followed by decorative winged seeds, often tinged red during summer.

Very hardy, the Amur Maple tolerates particularly cold winters. It grows well in full sun or partial shade and adapts to a wide range of soils, including limestone soils, provided drainage is adequate. Once established, it also shows good tolerance of wind and dry conditions.

Its manageable size, excellent hardiness and remarkable autumn colour make it an excellent choice as a small ornamental tree, specimen, multi-stem tree or informal hedge.

Botanical name: Acer tataricum subsp. ginnala
Common horticultural name: Acer ginnala
Flowering period: Spring
Flower colour: Creamy white to greenish
Pollinator value: Yes, moderate interest for bees and other pollinators
Position: Full sun to partial shade
Soil: Adaptable, preferably well drained
Foliage: Deciduous
Autumn colour: Orange to bright red
Mature height: Approx. 4–7 m
Mature spread: Approx. 4–6 m
Hardiness: Excellent
USDA zone: 3–8
Uses: Specimen tree, small garden, multi-stem tree, informal hedge, ornamental tree