Maackia amurensis, commonly known as the Amur maackia, is a species of flowering tree native to eastern Asia, specifically the Amur River region of Russia, China, Korea, and Japan. Here's some key information about it:

Description: Amur maackia is a deciduous tree that typically grows to be 20 to 40 feet tall, though it can occasionally reach heights of up to 60 feet. It has an upright, spreading growth habit with a rounded crown. The leaves are compound, with 7 to 13 leaflets arranged alternately along the stem. In late spring to early summer, the tree produces small, fragrant white flowers in upright clusters, followed by flat, papery seed pods in the fall.

Habitat: Amur maackia is adaptable to a range of soil types and growing conditions but prefers well-drained, slightly acidic soil. It is commonly found in mixed forests, along riverbanks, and in other riparian habitats.

Ornamental Value: This tree is valued for its ornamental qualities, including its attractive foliage, fragrant flowers, and interesting seed pods. It is often planted as a specimen tree in parks, gardens, and along streets.

Ecological Significance: Amur maackia provides habitat and food for various wildlife species, including birds and small mammals. Its flowers attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

Cultural Significance: While not as widely known as some other tree species, Amur maackia has cultural significance in its native range. It has been used in traditional medicine and as a source of timber for construction and woodworking. Hardy in zones 3-7.

Growing Instructions for the Amur Maackia

The seeds have a hard seed coat that has to be treated, or scarified, in order for water to enter the seeds so that they can sprout. 1. Scarify the seeds by nicking or sanding the seed coat. The seeds can be sanded with sandpaper, a nail file or an emery board. 2. Soak the seeds in water for 24 hours. 3. The seeds like moist, well-drained soil. Prepare a mixture of half potting soil and half sand, perlite or vermiculite. Put the soil in a pot. 4. Sow the seeds on the soil. 5. Cover the seeds with a layer of that is ¼ of an inch thick. 6. Water the soil so that it is moist but not wet. The seeds germinate in 3 weeks. 7. When the seedlings are a few inches tall, they can be transplanted.