Acer ginnala Maxim. Description
Acer ginnala Maxim., commonly known as Amur maple or Siberian maple, is a species of maple native to northeastern Asia, especially in Mongolia, Japan, Korea, and Northeast China. It belongs to the family Sapindaceae, and is widely planted as an ornamental tree due to its beautiful leaves and overall appearance.
General Appearance
Acer ginnala Maxim. can grow up to a height of 33 feet and has a crown that can spread up to 23 feet wide. The tree has a multi-stemmed growth habit and develops into a small tree or a large shrub. Its leaves are deciduous and three-lobed, with serrated edges that are bright green in color during the summer, and turn a vibrant yellow to red in the autumn. Its flowers bloom in the spring, producing small and yellow-green clusters, which later turn into red samaras.
Uses
Acer ginnala Maxim. has various uses ranging from ornamental to medicinal. Due to its beautiful and delicate appearance, the tree is ideal for landscaping and can be planted as a specimen or in groups. Its hardy nature makes it an excellent plant for landscaping in the colder regions. Although not commonly used, the tree has medicinal uses and has been used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat hemorrhoids and diarrhea.
Additionally, its sap contains a high concentration of sugar and has been used as a sweetening agent. In Mongolia, the tree has been used for red dye due to its red samaras and leaves during autumn.
In conclusion, Acer ginnala Maxim. is an attractive plant that can be used both for ornamental and medicinal reasons. Its hardy nature and beautiful appearance make it a popular choice for landscaping in the colder regions, and its sap can be used as a sweetening agent.Light Requirements
Acer ginnala Maxim. is a sun-loving plant that thrives in full sunlight. It can tolerate partial shade, but the plant may not grow as well and may not produce as many flowers. If grown indoors, it is best to place near a south-facing window or under artificial lights for at least 6 hours per day.
Temperature Requirements
Acer ginnala Maxim. is a hardy plant that can withstand a wide range of temperatures. It is cold hardy and can survive winter temperatures down to -50°C (-58°F). During the growing season, the ideal temperature range is 18-25°C (64-77°F). Temperatures above 32°C (90°F) can cause wilting and leaf scorching, while temperatures below 10°C (50°F) can slow down growth and development.
Soil Requirements
Acer ginnala Maxim. prefers well-draining, loamy soil that is rich in organic matter. It can grow in a wide range of soil pH levels, but neutral or slightly acidic soil (pH 6.0-7.5) is ideal. Soil that is too compact or heavy can suffocate the roots, while overly sandy soil can dry out too quickly. The plant thrives in moist soil that is consistently moist but not waterlogged. Adding compost or aged manure to the soil can improve fertility and water-holding capacity.
Cultivation Methods
The Acer ginnala Maxim. is a hardy plant that can withstand tough weather conditions, including drought and cold temperatures. However, it thrives best in well-drained soils with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. The plant should be planted in a location with adequate sunlight exposure, especially in the morning. The soil around the plant should be worked to ensure good aeration, making it easy for the plant to develop its roots.
Watering Needs
Adequate watering is crucial for the growth and development of the Acer ginnala Maxim. The plant should be watered regularly, especially during the first growing season. Afterward, watering should be reduced to once a week. However, the frequency and amount of water will depend on the prevailing weather conditions and soil moisture levels. It's important to avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot, leading to stunted growth or even death.
Fertilization
Fertilization is critical for the growth and development of the Acer ginnala Maxim. A balanced fertilizer with the right nutrients should be applied in early spring before the plant resumes active growth. The amount of fertilizer will depend on the plant's age and size. Older and larger plants will require more fertilizer than younger and smaller plants. It's important to note that over-fertilization can lead to excessive growth, making the plant vulnerable to pests and diseases.
Pruning
Pruning is essential for Acer ginnala Maxim.'s health and to maintain its aesthetic appeal. Light pruning should be done in late winter or early spring before the plant resumes active growth. The aim is to remove dead or diseased branches, and to shape the plant. It's important to avoid heavy pruning, which can weaken the plant and make it more vulnerable to pests and diseases. Any pruning tool used should be properly sharpened and sterilized to prevent the spread of diseases.
Propagation of Acer ginnala Maxim.
Acer ginnala Maxim., commonly known as Amur maple, is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to eastern Asia. It is an ornamental plant that is valued for its attractive foliage, showy flowers, and fall colors. Propagation of this plant can be done through various methods such as seeds, cuttings, layering, and grafting.
Propagation by seeds
Seeds are the most reliable method of propagating Acer ginnala. They should be collected from ripe fruits in the fall and stored in a cool, dry place until the following spring. Before planting them, they should be stratified for 3-4 months to break their dormancy. Sow the stratified seeds in a well-drained seedling mix, cover lightly with soil, and keep them moist. The newly germinated seedlings should be kept in a shaded area until they are strong enough to be transplanted.
Propagation by cuttings
Softwood cuttings of Acer ginnala, taken in late spring or early summer, can root easily in a well-drained rooting medium with regular misting and bottom heat. Semi-hardwood cuttings taken in late summer or early fall can be rooted in a similar way but require intermittent misting to prevent wilting. Hardwood cuttings taken in late fall or winter have a lower success rate but can still be rooted with bottom heat and a rooting hormone. Rooted cuttings should be transplanted into a well-drained soil mix and grown in a shaded area until established.
Propagation by layering
Layering Acer ginnala can be done in the spring or fall. Select a low growing branch and gently bend it down to the ground. Remove a small section of bark where the branch touches the soil and cover the wounded area with soil, leaving the tip of the branch exposed. Water the soil regularly and wait for the roots to form, which may take several months. Once the new plant has formed roots, cut the branch from the parent plant and transplant it to a new location.
Propagation by grafting
Grafting Acer ginnala onto a hardy rootstock can be used to ensure uniform tree size and vigor. The best time to graft is in early spring before bud break. Two commonly used grafting methods are whip and tongue grafting and side grafting. The graft union should be wrapped with a grafting tape and covered with a grafting wax or paint to prevent moisture loss. Newly grafted plants should be grown in a shaded area until established.
Disease and Pest Management for Acer ginnala Maxim.
Acer ginnala Maxim., commonly known as Amur maple, is a small deciduous tree or shrub that is native to northeastern Asia. Amur maple is generally a hardy plant that can adapt to different climatic conditions. Despite their hardiness, Amur maples can still be affected by some diseases and pests that can cause damage to the plant if not managed properly. Here are some common diseases and pests that can affect Amur maples and the ways to manage them.
Common Diseases
Verticillium Wilt: This is a fungal disease that affects the vascular tissue of Amur maples and can cause severe wilting, yellowing of leaves, and eventually death. The fungus enters the plant through the roots and moves upwards through the water-conducting vessels, blocking the movement of water and nutrients.
Anthracnose: This is a fungal disease that causes leaf blight, stem cankers, and dieback. The symptoms of anthracnose include irregular brown spots on the leaves, curled leaves, and twig dieback.
Pest Management
Japanese Beetle: This is a common pest that feeds on the leaves and fruits of the Amur maple. The adult beetles are shiny and metallic, with a green head and coppery-brown wings. They can be controlled by shaking the branches of the plant to dislodge the beetles and then handpicking and disposing of them. Insecticidal soap or neem oil can also be used to control the beetles.
Aphids: These are small, soft-bodied insects that suck sap from the leaves and stems of the plant, causing stunted growth and distortion of leaves. They also excrete honeydew that attracts ants and other insects. Aphids can be controlled by using insecticidal soap or neem oil. Insect predators such as ladybugs and lacewings can also be introduced to the garden to control the aphids.
Mites: Mites are tiny, spider-like pests that feed on the leaves of the Amur maple, causing them to become yellow and discolored. Heavy infestations can cause defoliation. Mites can be controlled by using insecticidal soap or neem oil. Horticultural oils and miticides can also be used for severe infestations.
In conclusion, by understanding these common diseases and pests and implementing the suggested management methods, Amur maples can grow healthy and thrive in gardens and landscapes. It is important to monitor the plants regularly and take necessary action in case of any infestation or disease.
