The Plant Guide

Browse the Full Plant Guide

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.

  • 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

Plant Characteristics are only available to Fine Gardening members

Sign up for a free trial and get instant access to our complete plant guide as well as our entire collection of articles and videos.

Start Free Trial

Related Plants

Related Articles

More From the Plant Guide

Winter Interest

Partial Shade

Browse the Full Plant Guide