Maple Acer ginnala

Amur maple is a deciduous tree or large shrub in the Sapindaceae (soapberry) family native to Asia. The shape is variable from a multi-stemmed to single trunked and can be successfully tailored to specific landscape requirements by pruning.  Its mature height is 15 to 20 feet tall and 15 to 20 feet wide with an often multi-stemmed. trunk and rounded crown.

While it technically is hardy from zones 3-8, it will perform best in zones 3-6.  Plant in full sun to light shade in a range of soil types. I is quite adaptable to a wide range of pH ranges but does best in well drained soil. Tolerant of wind, dry soil, and drought. It withstands heavy pruning and can be successfully grown as a container plant.  Easy to transplant and casts dense shade.

This smaller maple can be used as small specimen, or patio tree and even works well in a container. With its dense foliage it can be used for screening or mass plantings on blank walls of large buildings. The Flame cultivar is a large shrub with flaming fall color that can be planted in above ground containers.

Quick ID Hints:

• Opposite leaves
• Distinct red petioles
• Excellent yellow and/or red fall color

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  It can be weedy and is listed as invasive in some states in the midwestern and northeastern U.S.A. See potential insect and disease problem fact sheets to the left.

The Clemson Cooperative Extension Home and Garden Information Center has a factsheet on common maple diseases and insect pests. 

VIDEO created by Andy Pulte for “Landscape Plant Identification, Taxonomy and Morphology” a plant identification course offered by the Department of Plant Sciences, University of Tennessee.