Origin: Asia
Amur maple is a small tree or tall shrub, usually with multiple stems and a rounded crown.
Read more about Tree, Bark, TwigsLeaves are triangular, usually with a long central lobe flanked by two lobes at the base.
Read more about LeavesFlowers are tiny, pale yellow or cream-coloured and fragrant, in clusters at the tips of branches.
Read more about FlowersFruits are pairs of pinkish winged seeds (samaras or keys). The wings' inner edges are nearly parallel.
Read more about FruitIt usually has multiple stems (a dozen or more) and a rounded shape, but cultivated trees may be pruned for a desired outline and a single stem.
Leaves are 8 to 10 cm (3" - 4") long with toothed edges. The upper surface is dark green and glossy. The underside is paler.
Like all maples, Amur maple fruits are pairs of winged seeds (called samaras or keys), 2 - 2.5 cm (up to 1") long.
Distribution
Amur maple is native to Japan and northeast China. It was introduced to North America around 1860 and is now widely planted as an ornamental tree. It has become naturalized in parts of southern Ontario.
Derivation of names
The genus name, Acer, is the classical name for maples. The species name, ginnala, comes from a local name for this tree in its native east Asian range. Amur is a region of Siberia.
Amur maple's place in Toronto's urban forest
Amur maple is most commonly found in formal settings, especially in private gardens, city parks, cemeteries and street containers. It occasionally escapes into ravines.
Landscape value and potential for home planting
Amur maple leaves and keys provide a bright and colourful display in the fall. It is a hardy tree that seems to have a higher tolerance for shade than other maple species. It grows well in a range of soils and growing conditions and can be easily shaped by pruning. There are several cultivars including a shrub form.
Pests and diseases: Amur maple is relatively free of pests and diseases, but can be affected by leaf spots, anthracnose, and Verticillum wilt. These problems may cause blotching, wilting, and death of leaves, but may not necessarily kill the entire tree.
Links to maps at Canadian Tree Tours: