Amur Maple

Amur maple (*Acer ginnala*), also treated botanically as *Acer tataricum* subsp. *ginnala*, is a compact, cold-hardy deciduous shrub or small tree with fragrant spring flowers and vivid autumn foliage. Its dense, rounded crown suits a specimen, hedge, or informal screen, but abundant seed can lead to unwanted spread in parts of North America. ## Landscape use Plan for roughly 15–20 feet tall and wide. The rounded plant can be grown as a multi-stemmed shrub or pruned to a single trunk. Its green, three-lobed leaves turn yellow, orange, or red in fall, while small, fragrant cream-white flowers appear in spring. Use it as a specimen, an informal hedge or screen, or in a large patio container where the mature spread fits. The [NC State Extension profile](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/acer-tataricum-subsp-ginnala/) describes its size and landscape uses; [Oregon State University](https://landscapeplants.oregonstate.edu/plants/acer-tataricum-subsp-ginnala) records its multi-stemmed habit and cold hardiness. ## Growing conditions Full sun to part shade supports good growth, with sun favoring strong fall color. Moist, well-drained soil is best, though the species adapts to clay, sand, loam, and alkaline conditions. It tolerates some drought once established; water young plants and during prolonged dry spells. Use USDA zones 3–8 as a conservative range; Oregon State reports survival into zone 2. UF/IFAS describes moderate tolerance of salt aerosol, which may help in exposed coastal air but does not establish tolerance of saline soil. ## Regional spread Amur maple produces many winged seeds that can spread by wind and is invasive in parts of the Midwest, mid-Atlantic, and Northeast. Minnesota specially regulates the species and advises controlling seedlings and keeping plantings at least 100 yards from natural areas. Check state and local guidance before planting, especially near woodlands or prairies. The [Minnesota DNR profile](https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/invasives/terrestrialplants/woody/amurmaple.html) explains that regional risk. This listing covers the species, not a named cultivar, so cultivar-specific breeder, brand, and plant-patent details do not apply. ## Maintenance **Moderate maintenance.** Leave the plant multi-stemmed for a natural shrub form, or prune selectively when young to develop a single-trunk tree. Remove unwanted seedlings before they establish, particularly near natural areas.