MaacNificent® Maackia

MaacNificent® is an upright, vase-shaped selection of Amur maackia with spring foliage that shows a silvery cast. White, spike-like flower clusters appear in early summer, followed by the tree’s characteristic flat pods. ## Growing Conditions J. Frank Schmidt lists this selection at about 30 feet tall and 22 feet wide, with USDA hardiness to zone 3. Its [MaacNificent plant profile](https://jfschmidt.com/all-trees/introductions/maacnificent-maackia/) identifies the selection as Maackia amurensis ‘JFS-Schichtel1’ and describes its vigorous, upright branching. The species grows in full sun to part shade in average, well-drained soil; North Carolina State Extension notes that it tolerates heavy clay but not extreme wet or dry sites in its [Amur maackia profile](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/maackia-amurensis/). ## Maintenance Establish the tree with regular watering, then irrigate during prolonged dry spells. Prune for structure when young; avoid large cuts on mature branches, which can take time to heal.