Amur Maakia (Maackia amurensis)

The Amur maackia is a petite but dense tree. It has small, white, fragrant flowers that appear in narrow, long, and spike-like clusters. Its leaves are composed of 5-7 silvery green leaflets. This tree's bark is particular, in that it has a shiny amber color that peels with age. This tree attracts insect pollinators.

Family: Fabaceae (Pea)

Characteristics: The leaves are composed of 5-7 silvery green leaflets, which are each 1-3 inches long. This tree does not have a fall color. In June-July, small white flowers appear in 4-inch to 6-inch-long racemes (clusters of flowers where each flower is attached to its own stalk). These flowers are followed by long and flat seed pods. Bark is shiny, amber colored, and peels with age. This tree is broad and has a rounded shape. It grows 20-30 feet high and wide.

Foliage: Deciduous (leaves lost seasonally)

Geographic Origin: Russia, eastern Asia (non-native)

Cultivation Notes: Requires low maintenance. Does best in full sun to part shade. Prefers acidic or alkaline, moist, and well-drained soils.

Number on Campus: 5

Sources: Dirr, Morton Arboretum, Missouri Botanical Garden