Acer tataricum subsp. ginnala - Amur maple

Acer tataricum subsp. ginnala, also known as a Amur maple, is a subspecies of the Tatar maple and belongs to the family of Sapindaceae. The plant originally comes from East Asia and is primarily located in the regions around Amur, in Manchuria, Korea and Japan. The fire maple is particularly popular as an ornamental tree because of its bright red autumn color and its easy-care character. Due to its relatively compact growth shape, it is ideal for smaller gardens and urban greening.

Morphology and growth form

Acer tataricum subsp. ginnala grows as a small tree or large shrub and reaches a height of 5 to 10 meters. The growth is multi -stamped and expansive, with a dense, slightly overhanging crown. The bark is dark gray and develops fine, flaky structures in old age.

The leaves are the most striking feature of the fire maple and give it its decorative effect. They are arranged and have a characteristic three -lobed shape, whereby the middle rag is often longer and narrower than the side flaps. The top of the leaf is dark green and smooth, while the underside is slightly lighter colored. In autumn, the leaves turn into a bright red to orange, which is responsible for the nickname "fire maple".

The flowers of the Amur maple are relatively inconspicuous and appear in late spring in small, yellowish-green panicles. They are rich in nectar and are mainly flown by bees and other insects. The fruits, so -called gap fruits, develop into pairs of winged nuts that form an angle of almost 180 degrees. In late summer and autumn, these seed stands often turn red and also contribute to the decorative effect of the plant.

Distribution and habitat

Acer tataricum subsp. ginnala is native to East Asia and grows there in moderate climate zones. The plant is relatively adaptable and occurs in both sunny and partially shaded locations. The floor should be well permeable and moderately moist, with the tree showing slight preference for slightly acidic to neutral soils. Due to its winter hardness and tolerance towards different soil conditions, the fire maple is cultivated as an ornamental plant worldwide and is particularly popular in Europe and North America.

Due to its adaptability to various environmental conditions, Acer tataricum subsp. ginnala became known as an invasive way in some regions. In parts of North America, the tree also spreads outside of cultivation and displaces domestic plant species.

Ecological meaning

The fire maple plays an important role as a source of food for insects. The nectar -rich flowers attract a variety of pollinators, especially bees and butterflies. The winged seeds are spread through the wind and contribute to the natural spread of the plant. Birds also use the Amur maple as a nesting site and benefit from the densely growing branches as protection against predators.

Another ecological advantage is the tolerance of the plant compared to urban conditions such as air pollution and drought, which makes it an ideal choice for green greening and public green spaces. Since the tree has a certain salt compatibility, it is also often used in regions with winter road salt loads.

Care and cultivation

Acer tataricum subsp. ginnala is relatively easy to care for and places low demands on the ground. However, the plant prefers well -permeable, humus -rich soils and tolerates both sunny and partially shaded locations. Care is mainly limited to regular irrigation in dry periods and an occasional cut to shape. The fire maple is a frosthart and does not require a special winter protection, which predestines it for cultivation in moderate climate zones.

Due to its dense growth and decorative leaves, the Amur maple is often used as a hedge plant, solitaire trees or privacy screen. It is also well suited for cultivation as a bonsai.

Use and cultural importance

In addition to its use as an ornamental plant, Acer tataricum subsp. ginnala in East Asia also known for its medical properties. The bark and leaves are used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat pain and inflammation.

In the garden design, many people appreciate the fire maple for its pronounced autumn color and the harmonious growth form, which comes into its own even in smaller gardens. In some cultures, the maple tree symbolizes strength and resistance, which makes it particularly popular in Japan and Korea.