Amur cork tree (Phellodendron amurense 'Macho')
The Phellodendron amurense 'Macho', or Amur cork tree, is a rugged, low-maintenance shade tree offering attractive corky bark and a broad crown.
Scroll down to discover growing tips, care requirements, companion plants, and more
Complete Plant Information
Overview
The Phellodendron amurense ‘Macho’, commonly known as the Amur cork tree, is a robust deciduous tree prized for its architectural form and textured bark. This male cultivar is a reliable choice for landscapes needing significant overhead cover without the burden of fruit litter, making the Phellodendron amurense ‘Macho’ particularly attractive to groundskeepers. It develops a broad, rounded crown, often featuring low, gracefully arching branches that offer substantial shade.
Indigenous to moist soils along the Amur River boundary between Siberia and China, this species has adapted well to varied conditions outside its native range. Gardeners appreciate the Amur cork tree for its toughness; it tolerates significant urban pollution and provides year-round interest thanks to its distinctive, ridged, corky grayish-brown bark.
Requiring minimal intervention once established, the ‘Macho’ variety focuses entirely on form and function. While the foliage turns a plain yellow in autumn, the overall structure and resilience of this specimen ensure it remains a dependable, large-scale shade provider in appropriate settings.
Fast Facts
- Plant Family: Rutaceae
- Plant Type: Tree
- Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 4-7
- Size at Maturity:
- Height: 30-45 ft
- Spread: 30-45 ft
- Bloom Time: May to June
- Bloom Description: Yellowish-green
- Sun Exposure: Full sun
- Water Needs: Medium
- Maintenance Level: Low
How to Grow
For optimal establishment, plant the Amur cork tree in fertile, humusy soils that are consistently moist and well-drained. While it prefers steady moisture, an established Phellodendron amurense ‘Macho’ exhibits good drought tolerance, making it suitable for slightly drier pockets once roots are developed. Full sun exposure is required to maintain good structure and overall vigor.
Water deeply and regularly during the initial few seasons following planting to encourage deep root system development. Fertilizing is rarely necessary for this species, especially in fertile soils. Pruning should be minimal, focusing primarily on removing any crossing or dead branches, as the natural, broad-spreading habit of the Amur cork tree is its main aesthetic draw.
Be aware that the species can reseed aggressively in ideal locations, but the ‘Macho’ cultivar is specifically selected as a male plant, meaning it will not produce the pea-sized drupes found on female specimens. Furthermore, this tree’s impressive tolerance means it handles many common urban air pollutants effectively, though its low, spreading habit generally rules it out for use as a tight street tree.
Landscape Uses
The Amur cork tree excels as a specimen or shade tree on properties with ample space, such as large acreage or park settings. Its wide, rounded canopy provides excellent overhead filtering, perfect for creating cool, dappled shade beneath which to place seating areas or garden features. The interesting structure of the mature trunk and bark also offers significant winter interest where deciduous natives might appear plain.
While generally considered a poor choice for narrow street plantings due to its low, wide-spreading branches, it is superb for woodland edges or large, informal borders. Companion planting should focus on species that appreciate well-drained loam and full sun, perhaps understory shrubs that tolerate root competition once the established Phellodendron amurense ‘Macho’ begins to dominate the space.
Standout Features
Flower Qualities
- Insignificant
Noteworthy Characteristics
Phellodendron amurense, commonly called Amur cork tree, is a deciduous tree with a rounded, broad-spreading crown, noted for its attractive shape, bark, and foliage. Grayish-brown bark on mature trees is ridged and corky, providing excellent winter texture. The ‘Macho’ cultivar is male, producing non-showy, yellowish-green flowers in May-June but ensuring no fruit is produced, which is a significant benefit in managed landscapes.
Tolerances
- Drought
Potential Problems
The Amur cork tree generally enjoys a reputation for being remarkably disease- and insect-free, resulting in very low maintenance requirements for pest control. Gardeners seldom need to apply preventative treatments for common issues that plague other large deciduous trees. The primary concern, which is often cultural rather than pathological, relates to its natural growth habit.
Due to its low branching structure, the Phellodendron amurense ‘Macho’ may require significant limb removal if it is situated near walkways or under utility lines, potentially compromising its natural silhouette. Additionally, in certain favorable environments, the species can spread aggressively by seed if a female tree is nearby, although this is not a pollination concern specifically for the ‘Macho’ clone itself.
Frequently Asked Questions
What hardiness zones is Amur cork tree suitable for?
The Phellodendron amurense ‘Macho’ is hardy across USDA Zones 4 through 7, offering adaptability across much of the temperate US.
How large does the Amur cork tree grow?
This specimen tree typically reaches a mature height between 30 to 45 feet tall, with an equally broad spread of 30 to 45 feet, forming a substantial presence in the landscape.
When does Phellodendron amurense ‘Macho’ bloom?
The yellowish-green, non-showy flowers appear in panicles during the late spring and early summer months, specifically spanning from May to June.
What sun exposure does Phellodendron amurense ‘Macho’ need?
This tree thrives best when situated in a location receiving full sun exposure throughout the day.
Conclusion
The Phellodendron amurense ‘Macho’ stands out as a dependable, resilient shade provider whose striking corky bark enhances winter visual appeal. If you require a large, low-maintenance specimen tree capable of handling urban stresses, the Amur cork tree is an excellent choice, provided you confirm that your site falls within USDA Hardiness Zones 4 to 7. Plan planting during appropriate cool seasons to maximize early establishment.
Companion Planting
When siting the Amur cork tree, focus on companion plants that value well-drained soil and full sunlight, mirroring the cultural needs of the Phellodendron amurense ‘Macho’. Consider planting shade-tolerant woodland natives around the dripline areas, provided they do not require heavy moisture retention at the base of the larger tree. Good companions might include hardy perennials that appreciate dappled light once the tree matures, such as Hosta varieties known for thriving in partial shade or specific ferns that don’t mind competition from established tree roots.
Design Ideas
Utilize the massive, broad-spreading canopy of the Phellodendron amurense ‘Macho’ as a focal point in expansive lawns or rural estates where its size is an asset, not a constraint. Its unique bark means it deserves viewing during all seasons, so ensure it is positioned where its trunk is visible from a primary outdoor gathering space or through a window. For a naturalistic look, allow branches to sweep low to the ground, enhancing the picturesque quality inherent in this stately specimen tree.
