Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Tree
Height
240 inches
Width
180 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Adaptable
Lifespan
Medium
Native To
Northeastern Asia
Toxicity
Non-toxic
The Story
Plant Bio
Acer ginnala, the Amur maple, is a small, deciduous tree or large multi-stemmed shrub native to northeastern Asia. It is valued for its hardiness, adaptability, and attractive three-lobed leaves that provide brilliant fall color. The 'Flame' cultivar is specifically selected for its exceptionally reliable and intense fiery red fall foliage. It also produces showy red-winged samaras (seeds) in late summer, which contrast beautifully with the green leaves before the autumn display begins.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Select a site with full sun to part shade and well-drained soil.
- Dig a planting hole two to three times wider than the root ball.
- Place the tree in the hole, ensuring the root flare is at or above ground level.
- Backfill with the original soil, gently firming it around the roots.
- Water deeply and consistently during the first growing season.
- Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch, keeping it away from the trunk.
Pro Tip
For the most intense fall color, plant in a location that receives full sun and has slightly acidic soil.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly during dry spells, especially when young.
- Prune to develop a strong structure while the tree is young.
- Allow for its natural multi-stemmed habit or train to a single trunk.
- Check local regulations, as it can be invasive in some areas.
Don't
- Do not plant in poorly drained, constantly wet soils.
- Avoid excessive nitrogen fertilizer, which can inhibit fall color.
- Don't pile mulch against the trunk, as this can cause rot.
- Avoid major pruning in spring when maples 'bleed' sap.
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Flame Amur Maple questions
What zones can Flame Amur Maple grow in?
Flame Amur Maple is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Flame Amur Maple deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Flame Amur Maple, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Flame Amur Maple bloom?
Flame Amur Maple typically blooms in mid-spring through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Flame Amur Maple need full sun?
Flame Amur Maple does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Flame Amur Maple drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Flame Amur Maple handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Acer to compare
Bloodgood Japanese Maple
Acer palmatum 'Bloodgood'
Orangeola Japanese Maple
Acer palmatum 'Orangeola'
Crimson Queen Japanese Maple
Acer palmatum 'Crimson Queen'
Weeping Japanese Maple
Acer palmatum 'Shidare'
Coral Bark Maple
Acer palmatum 'Sango-Kaku'
Final Fire Japanese Maple
Acer palmatum 'Final Fire'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Collections featuring this plant
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Flame Amur Maple with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
