Acer tataricum subsp. ginnala (Acer Tataricum Subsp Ginnala) — an easy houseplant, prefers full sun light
SPECIMEN · FROM THE LIBRARY
Acer tataricum subsp. ginnala

Acer Tataricum Subsp Ginnala

Updated · 11 observations
ON THIS PLANT

Acer tataricum subsp. ginnala, commonly known as Amur maple, is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to eastern Asia. It typically reaches a height of 20-30 feet and has a spread of 15-25 feet. The leaves are three-lobed and turn bright red in the fall, adding significant ornamental value to landscapes.

In the spring, Amur maple produces small yellowish-white flowers, which are followed by winged samaras (seeds) in the fall. The plant thrives in well-drained soil and prefers full sun to partial shade.

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, this plant has been utilized for medicinal purposes by indigenous people in Asia for centuries. Both the bark and leaves contain compounds with anti-inflammatory properties.

Overall, Acer tataricum subsp. ginnala is an attractive and versatile plant, offering both visual beauty and medicinal benefits.

THE NAME

The Amur maple is a plant known for its strong vitality and vibrant fall foliage, displaying striking yellows and bright reds. This makes it a popular choice for cultivation. It is native to the Amur River valley in the Russian Far East, which is why it is called the Amur maple.

A note from PlantMom

Amur maple shows good resistance to disease and is generally not susceptible to illnesses. With regard to care, this plant is fairly low-maintenance. When grown outdoors it needs only minimal watering, and larger specimens typically do not require pruning. Smaller plants, however, should be pruned after they have bloomed. Amur maplet is appropriate for anyone with an outdoor area, such as a garden or deck, and does not require a lot of care experience.

— PlantMom
CARE GUIDE

How to keep Acer Tataricum Subsp Ginnala.

Light

Amur maple grows best in places with plenty of sunlight, which encourages healthy growth and development. It can also tolerate locations that receive only moderate light. The species originated in habitats with abundant light. Too much or too little light can negatively affect its health and growth.

Water

Amur maple, which comes from moderately moist regions, thrives with a balanced watering approach. Ideally, it should be watered once every 1 to 2 weeks. This plant prefers slightly dry soil and moderate humidity. It adapts well to outdoor conditions but performs best when consistently watered in line with its growth cycles.

Temperature

Amur maple's temperature needs align with a temperate climate. It does best in temperatures from 32 to 95 °F (0 to 35 °C). In winter it can endure lows down to −22 °F (−30 °C). In summer it favors warmer temperatures.

Fertilizer

Fertilize your Amur maple in early spring to encourage healthy growth. Regular feeding boosts the tree’s overall health, producing vigorous growth, increased resilience to harsh conditions, and enhanced resistance to pests and disease. Follow a specific fertilization schedule to keep the foliage vibrant, deeply colored, and lush in appearance.

Pruning

The Amur maple is prized for its vibrant foliage and adaptability. To promote healthy growth and maintain its shape, it's important to prune the tree in early spring. When pruning, focus on removing any dead branches and improving air circulation. Regular pruning not only enhances the tree's ornamental appeal but also helps prevent disease by ensuring clean cuts.

Toxicity

Unlike other maple tree varieties, the Amur maple tree is non-toxic and safe for people and pets.

Further reading →

The toxicity and danger assessments provided are for reference only. We do not assure their accuracy, so it's crucial not to depend on them. Seek professional advice when necessary for accurate guidance.

CHARACTERISTICS

Botanical profile.

Plant Type
Tree, Shrub
Life Cycle
Perennial
Genus
Acer
Family
Sapindaceae
Hardiness Zone
2-9
Mature Height
3.05 m to 10.06 m
Mature Spread
4.57 m to 6.1 m
Leaf Color
Green, Red
Leaf Type
Deciduous
Flower Color
White, Yellow, Green, Cream
Flower Size
0.51 cm to 0.76 cm
Bloom Time
Late spring, Early summer
Planting Time
Spring, Autumn
Harvest Time
Mid summer
Native Area
Russia, Japan, Koppen, South Korea, China
ALSO KNOWN AS

Other names.

en Amur Maple en Ginnala maple
FREQUENTLY ASKED

Reader questions.

How should I water my Amur maple tree in the most effective way?

To ensure excellent root development, it is suggested to place a garden hose at the base of the plant. It is important to avoid directly spraying the leaves. If the plant is outdoors and exposed to direct sunlight, the leaves will need more watering. One option is to use bubblers that can be attached to each plant to keep the roots moist. Soaker hoses that cover the entire garden or bed can be used when adding or removing plants to ensure deep root growth. After watering, excess water should be drained and the soil should be allowed to dry before watering again. Watering at ground level is recommended to prevent diseases. On sunny days, it may be beneficial to spray the entire bush with water. Whether the plant is in a pot or in the ground, it is important to remember that Amur maples prefer deep watering rather than light sprinkling.

Why do I have to give fertilizer to my Amur maple?

No matter which type of Amur maple you have, regular fertilization is key for the plant's overall health. Providing proper nutrients promotes strong growth and enables your Amur maple to better withstand challenging conditions and fight off pests and diseases. Since the foliage is a prized aspect of your Amur maple, it's important to maintain it. This entails following a dedicated fertilization schedule tailored to your specific Amur maple, resulting in vibrant, lush leaves with deep colors.

How many hours of sunlight should Amur maple get each day to grow healthy?

To ensure healthy growth, Amur maple should receive a minimum of 3-6 hours of sunlight daily. However, it's important to note that while most plants that can tolerate partial sunlight can also do well in full sun, they are more adaptable because they require less light for photosynthesis. This flexibility sets them apart from plants that specifically require either full sun or partial shade.

What is the best temperature for Amur maple?

The Amur maple thrives in temperatures ranging from 65 to 80℉ (18 to 27℃). During the primary growing phase, it can tolerate temperatures as high as 95℉ (35℃) and as low as 15℉ (-10℃). This species is able to survive freezing winters, indicating it has a tolerance for low temperatures. The ideal temperature range for the Amur maple is 65 to 80℉ (18 to 27℃), with the highest tolerable range being 85 to 95℉ (30 to 35℃) and the lowest tolerable range being -5 to 15℉ (-20 to -10℃) or lower.

What do I need to do if I give the Amur maple tree too much or too little water?

An overwatered Amur maple will show signs of yellowing leaves, leaf drop, and wilting. The plant may also appear dull and unhealthy with mushy stems. To address these signs, it's important to adjust your watering schedule as needed. Conversely, wilting could also be a symptom of under watering, characterized by crispy and dry leaves. In such cases, check the soil moisture level and if it is dry, provide a thorough watering. However, even with sufficient water, the damaged root system may cause the plant to continue displaying dryness and yellowing leaves for a few days. Once the plant returns to normal, the yellowing leaves will stop. When Amur maple is kept indoors, regularly assess the soil moisture levels to avoid overwatering. Look for signs of black spots, and if present, allow the soil to dry out by temporarily withholding water. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which may necessitate transferring the plant to a different pot, particularly if the roots appear discolored and slimy. Preventing root rot is crucial, so ensure the soil doesn't become excessively soggy. Additionally, when planting the Amur maple outdoors, dig a bit deeper and if the soil feels too dry, this may indicate underwatering, necessitating adequate watering to aid in the plant's recovery.

When should I put fertilizer on my Amur maple tree?

To keep your Amur maple healthy and promote its growth, it is recommended to fertilize it during the late winter or early spring. This gives the tree the necessary nutrients for healthy growth once the weather warms up. In warm climate regions, it is also beneficial to fertilize the Amur maple in early fall. This additional feeding provides extra nutrients for the upcoming growing season and helps the tree become more resilient in cold winters, preventing foliage damage. By fertilizing earlier, you ensure that the new branches have enough time to grow and withstand the winter.

What kind of sunlight does Amur maple require?

Amur maple thrives in full or part sun. For optimal performance, it prefers direct morning light, but during the summer, it requires protection from the strong afternoon sun. In temperate environments, excessive hot afternoon sun can scorch the leaves, harming the plant's overall appearance and health.

Should I change the temperature for the Amur maple tree depending on its different stages of growth?

Amur maple research has indicated that extended periods of higher temperatures can cause stunted growth, particularly during the development of axillary buds and main shoots. To promote vigorous growth after germination or transplanting, it is advisable to maintain consistent cooler temperatures of around 65℉(18℃).

How often do I need to water my Amur maple tree?

The Amur maple prefers deep and infrequent watering, especially when planted in pots, as they have limited water storage and the soil dries out quickly. In cold regions, watering is needed every 3 to 5 days. Water the plant in the morning when the soil is dry, both indoors and outdoors. Check the soil moisture by feeling the top 2-3 inches - if it's dry, it's time to water. On hot days, check the soil moisture daily as the heat can dry out the pot quickly. For garden irrigation in hot climates, water once a week when the top 2-3 inches of soil are dry. Take into account rainfall and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot. Amur maple grows in spring and fall, so adding mulch about 3-4 inches deep outdoors helps conserve water. Sandy soil drains faster, so water more frequently. Clay soil requires less frequent watering, with 2-3 days drying out the plant without causing root rot. Keep track of watering dates on a calendar, and if you notice drooping leaves, water a day earlier.

When is not a good time to fertilize my Amur maple?

You should avoid fertilizing your Amur maple during certain times of the year. The first time is in early and mid-winter when the plant is dormant and does not require feeding. It is also not recommended to fertilize the plant in late spring and throughout summer, as the weather is hotter and drier during that time. These conditions can have a negative impact on the plant if it is fertilized. To prevent any issues, it is best to stick to a fertilization schedule that only involves feeding in early spring and early fall.

Does the sun harm Amur maple trees? What can be done to shield Amur maple trees from the sun and heat?

When transplanting Amur maple from indoors to outdoors, it is important to protect them from direct sunlight to avoid damage. To prevent overexposure and sunburns, gradually move the pots from a shaded area to a brighter spot. Even if the plants are acclimated to the sun, extreme heat can still harm them. To protect Amur maple during a heatwave, it is crucial to keep the soil consistently moist. Additionally, moving the plants to areas with afternoon shade or using shade cloth can provide extra protection in extreme weather conditions.

How do I make sure Amur maple stays warm in the cold seasons?

The Amur maple is able to tolerate freezing temperatures when planted directly in the ground, as long as the winter temperatures do not drop below 15℉ (-10℃). However, if the Amur maple is planted in pots or containers, it is important to protect the roots from the cold weather. This can be done by wrapping the container in a blanket or bringing it indoors where it will be shielded from the elements.

PLATES
Acer tataricum subsp. ginnala leaf
PLATE 01 · leaf
Acer tataricum subsp. ginnala leaf
PLATE 02 · leaf
Acer tataricum subsp. ginnala flower
PLATE 03 · flower
Acer tataricum subsp. ginnala flower
PLATE 04 · flower
Acer tataricum subsp. ginnala fruit
PLATE 05 · fruit
Acer tataricum subsp. ginnala fruit
PLATE 06 · fruit
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