Maple, Amur (Acer tataricum ginnala)

Amur Maple (Acer tataricum ginnala)

is also sometimes know as Tatar Maple. It is a small maple, with a rounded head and a low branching habit. Young growths are a red/brown, and the bark changes within the first 24 months to an elephant-like grey. The flowers (which are tiny) are cream coloured and fragrant - you tend to smell them before you see them. As with most maples the seeds of Acer ginnala are carried in samara - they are winged and can helicopter for considerable distances. They are red in midsummer and make a striking display. The leaves are broadly triangular, three lobed and opposed on the branch i.e. they do not grow in pairs. They are dark green above and pale beneath in spring and supper, and then in autumn they explode into yellows, golds, reds even purples. Apart from a pleasing shape, it is the autumn colour that is the reason most people grow the Amur Maple.

Acer ginnala is a native of the Amur river region which defines part of the northern border between Russia and China and it is therefore tremendously hardy. It tolerates most soil types, although good drainage is advisable, and the Amur Maple can be cut back very hard if necessary. It is a delightful ornamental tree as it has leaf colour, fruit and grows quickly, but it can also be grown in a container and so makes a good subject for a patio or terrace. Acer ginnala is tolerant of pollution and salt so can be planted by road and sea. To some people's surprise, Amur Maple also makes an excellent hedging plant.

Should you want to buy it for this purpose, or if you want smaller plants to grow as multistems, container grown plants or for bonsai, take a look at our 60/80 cms Acer ginnala. To 7m.