Bailey Compact Amur Maple

‘Bailey Compact’ Amur maple (*Acer ginnala* ‘Bailey Compact’) is a dense, rounded deciduous shrub selected for its compact size and fine branching. Glossy green summer leaves turn orange to scarlet in fall, bringing strong seasonal color to smaller yards where a full-size tree would be too large. ## Landscape use Plan for about 7–9 feet tall and 7–8 feet wide. The compact crown works as a specimen, informal screen, or shaped hedge where its mature width fits. Fragrant yellowish flowers appear in spring, followed by winged seeds; glossy, three-lobed leaves provide the strongest summer and autumn display. [Bailey Nurseries](https://shop.baileynurseries.com/Product/Detail/0424), which introduced the cultivar, lists USDA zones 3–7 and describes its dense, rounded habit. A botanical cultivar reference lists zone 4, so performance at the cold edge can vary by site. ## Growing conditions Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil. Nursery guidance favors acidic soil; the related species also tolerates a broader range of soils and light conditions, but this compact selection is best given good drainage and regular water while establishing. Water during prolonged dry weather rather than treating it as a low-water shrub. ## Cultivar and regional spread Bailey Nurseries selected and introduced ‘Bailey Compact’ by 1975. No plant-patent number was identified in the horticultural sources reviewed. Amur maple can self-seed and is invasive in parts of North America. Minnesota specially regulates the species and its cultivars; check state and local guidance, and avoid planting beside natural areas where seedlings cannot be controlled. ## Maintenance **Moderate maintenance.** Selective pruning can maintain a hedge or shape the plant, while an informal multi-stem shrub needs less shaping. Remove unwanted seedlings where they appear, especially near natural areas.