Maackia amurensis aka Amur Maackia

Maackia amurensis, or Amur maackia, belongs to the pea family. Its native range spans Russia's Far East, northern China, and Japan. It grows as a small tree or shrub in temperate lands. Garden trees reach 20–30 feet [6.1–9.1 metres] tall and wide. Wild trees may reach 50–60 feet [15.2–18.3 metres]. Growth is slow, though some sources describe a moderate pace. The crown is broad and rounded, with a short trunk. Main branches often divide near the ground, then spread outward.

Mature bark peels in curls, showing copper, amber, and brown tones. Bark that has not peeled can look smooth and shiny. The pinnate leaves have an odd number of leaflets. Most accounts give seven to thirteen leaflets on each leaf. Young shoots and leaves can look silver as they unfold. The leaves turn dark olive green as they mature. Much of the foliage sits near the crown's outer edge. Autumn brings little color; leaves fall green or brown.

Small white flowers grow in upright racemes above the leaves. Each flower has the shape seen in the pea family. Their scent adds interest when the tree is in bloom. Sources place flowering from May into July, depending on location. Heavy bloom does not occur every year. Flat seed pods follow the flowers and turn brown. They remain a feature through summer and into fall. The bark, leaf color, and crown also add garden interest. This tree suits home gardens, streets, and small shade-tree sites.

Full sun gives the best growing conditions, though partial shade works. It prefers loose soil that drains well and stays moderately moist. Avoid sites that stay very wet or become very dry. It accepts sand, loam, and clay, including heavy clay. Soil pH does not place a strong limit on growth. Sources list USDA hardiness from zone 3 through zone 8a. Some give zone 4 as the lower limit. The tree fixes nitrogen and moves well when transplanted. Shape young trees, since large pruning cuts heal slowly. Prune after bloom in summer; winter cuts cause excess bleeding.

Care needs are low, with few serious pest or disease problems. Japanese beetles can feed on the leaves. The hard, heavy wood serves for house interiors and tool handles. People also use it to make utensils. Plants For A Future lists cooked young leaves as edible. It gives them a low food-use rating and reports no known hazards. That report does not establish safety for every person or pet. The same source lists no known medicinal use.