Amur Maple
acer ginnala
Also known as: ["Flame Maple","Siberian Maple"]
Overview
A deciduous small tree or large shrub known for its vibrant autumn foliage and small, fragrant flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["seasonal color change","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Sapindales |
| Family: | Sapindaceae |
| Genus: | Acer |
| Botanical Name: | Acer ginnala |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in temperate climates
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–40–40°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter; avoid heavy clay.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if needed for rejuvenation.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct or filtered sunlight daily; adjust for intense summer sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; monitor for sunburn signs.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Test soil pH annually; amend with lime if too acidic; avoid over-amending with peat moss in heavy soils.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 3–8; tolerates cold winters; prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C) during active growth.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize in early spring before new growth; reduce frequency in late summer; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Softwood cuttings in summer; seed propagation is also viable but slower.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer for cuttings; autumn for seeds after fruit ripening.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%); warm temperatures (70–75°F or 21–24°C); indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite; or coarse sand and peat moss.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster root development.
Timeline
Cuttings root in 4–8 weeks; seed germination takes 1–3 months with stratification.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, misting bottle, plastic bags or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, disease-free cuttings; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Thinning cuts to open the canopy; heading cuts to encourage bushiness; avoid excessive topping.
Pruning Plan
Shape the plant; remove dead or diseased wood; encourage airflow and reduce pest risk.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, saw (for larger branches), disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead/diseased wood; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins; avoid repotting during dormancy.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure drainage holes are present.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; use fresh, well-draining soil; ensure proper drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for container-grown plants.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil mix; water plant before repotting; position plant at correct depth.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation; ensure proper drainage to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; mix in perlite or sand for drainage; ensure organic matter is well-decomposed.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch in excessive heat; leaf drop or browning in cold stress; stunted growth in temperature extremes.
Cold Stress
Leaves may turn yellow or brown; growth slows or halts; potential dieback in severe cold.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; protect from harsh winds; move potted plants to sheltered locations.
Hot Stress
Wilting despite moist soil; leaf scorch or yellowing; reduced vigor in prolonged heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; mist leaves in extreme heat.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Choose appropriate fertilizer; apply at correct dilution; fertilize during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring; dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength monthly during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are also susceptible to mild toxicity from Amur maple seeds and bark. The compounds can cause gastrointestinal irritation, though cats may be more sensitive to certain plant toxins.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Amur maple seeds and bark may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The toxic principles are similar to those affecting humans, with saponins being the primary concern.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicAcer ginnala, commonly known as Amur maple, contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress if ingested in significant quantities. The toxicity is primarily due to the presence of saponins and other secondary metabolites.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How tall does the Amur Maple grow?
A: It typically reaches 15–20 feet in height.
Q: Does the Amur Maple produce fruit?
A: Yes, it produces samaras (winged seeds) that are attractive to birds.
Q: Is the Amur Maple suitable for small gardens?
A: Yes, it can be pruned to maintain a shrub-like form, making it suitable for smaller spaces.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Sapindaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
