The Plant Guide

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Amur cork tree

Phellodendron amurense

This spreading tree with a graceful habit bears glossy, dark green leaflets. Thick shoots grow quickly when young—and more slowly as the tree reaches maturity. In fall, foliage turns a handsome shade of yellow and the tree bears clusters of blue-black berries. Deeply corrugated, pale gray-brown bark is a striking feature; unfortunately, it doesn’t develop until the tree matures.

Noteworthy CharacteristicsGets its name from the Amur River, in the cork tree’s native range in northern China. Tolerates drought and a wide range of soil conditions. If planting near a patio or walkway, plant a male tree to avoid fruit. It is invasive in some areas.

CareGrow in full sun and most any soil.

PropagationRoot semi-ripe cuttings in midsummer.

ProblemsInfrequent.

Fine Gardening Recommended Products

DeWalt Variable-Speed Cordless Reciprocating Saw with 6-Piece Saw Blade Set

Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.

You can fit a variety of blades to this saw to cut fallen branches or prune larger limbs from trees in a pinch. It’s fast, tough, easy to use, and extremely versatile.
- 18.31 x 6.13 x 4 inches
- 1-1/8-inch stroke length
- Variable speed trigger with 0-3000 spm
- DW4856 Metal/Woodcutting Reciprocating Saw Blade Set, 6-Piece
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DeWalt Variable-Speed Cordless Reciprocating Saw

Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.

You can fit a variety of blades to this saw to cut fallen branches or prune larger limbs from trees in a pinch. It’s fast, tough, easy to use, and extremely versatile.
- 18.31 x 6.13 x 4 inches
- 1-1/8-inch stroke length
- Variable speed trigger with 0-3000 spm
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The Nature of Oaks: The Rich Ecology of Our Most Essential Native Trees

Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.

The Nature of Oaks reveals what is going on in oak trees month by month, highlighting the seasonal cycles of life, death, and renewal. From woodpeckers who collect and store hundreds of acorns for sustenance to the beauty of jewel caterpillars, Doug Tallamy illuminates and celebrates the wonders that occur right in our own backyards. He also shares practical advice about how to plant and care for an oak, along with information about the best oak species for your area.
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  • Genus : Phellodendron
  • Plant Width : 30 feet or more
  • Plant Height : 30 feet or more
  • Zones : 4, 5, 6, 7
  • Tolerance : Drought Tolerant
  • Moisture : Dry to Medium
  • Plant Seasonal Interest : Fall Interest
  • Growth Rate : Fast
  • Light : Full Sun to Partial Shade
  • Characteristics : Interesting Bark, Showy Foliage
  • Uses : Shade
  • Bloom Time : Spring
  • Plant Type : Trees
  • Flower Color : Yellow

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