SafePlants

Amur Maple (Acer ginnala)

The Amur Maple, known scientifically as Acer ginnala, is a versatile plant appreciated for its adaptability and vibrant fall foliage. It is often used in landscaping due to its manageable size and attractive features.

Considerations for Pets and Children

• The text mentions that Amur Maple can be pruned into hedges, suggesting potential for small parts (leaves, twigs) to be accessible.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Acer ginnala
• Common Name: Amur Maple
• Family: Sapindaceae (Soapberry Family) - formerly Aceraceae (Maple Family)
• Synonym: Acer tataricum var. ginnala (treated as a subspecies by some botanists)
• Alternative Scientific Name: Acer ginnala Maxim.
• Subspecies: Acer tataricum subsp. ginnala 'Flame'

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to northeastern Asia, including easternmost Mongolia, Korea, and Japan, extending north.
• Also native to northern and central China, and Manchuria.
• Introduced to the United States around 1860 as an ornamental plant.

Ecological Role

• Identified as potentially invasive in some regions.
• Has invasive traits that enable it to spread aggressively.
• Under observation and may be listed on official invasive species lists.
• Demonstrated an invasive tendency in Connecticut.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Typically grows as a tall shrub or small tree, reaching up to 20-25 feet in height.
• Can be grown as a multi-stemmed clump or trained as a single-trunk tree.
• Has a broad or rounded crown.
• Twigs are smooth and light-colored.
• Leaves are opposite, simple, serrated, 2 to 4 inches long, and typically 3-lobed, with deeply lobed leaves that are glossy.
• Foliage is dark green throughout the growing season, turning outstanding orange to red in the fall.
• Fruit is a double-winged samara in the shape of a "U".
• Flowers are fragrant.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Buds, twigs, seeds, flowers, bark, and foliage provide summer cover and food for upland game and songbirds, fur bearers, and game animals.

Other Interesting Facts

• Tolerant to challenging site conditions and relatively free from pests.
• Well-suited for small yards and urban spaces due to its size and adaptability.
• The red fall color and fruit are notable ornamental features.
• Is cold hardy and drought tolerant.

Resources and Further Information

• Missi Botanical Garden (identified the plant as spreading)
• Nebraska Forest Service
• Leafsnap (electronic field guide for trees)
• RHS (Royal Horticultural Society)
• NatureHills.com
• Lowes.com
• McKay Nursery Company
• Monrovia