Illinois Exotic Species:

Amur maple Acer ginnala

Amur maple is a small tree that may reach a height of approximately 20 feet. Like other maples, it has opposite, simple leaves with shallow lobes, and red, winged fruits that develop in late summer. A native of China and Japan, this plant was introduced into the United States because of its colorful autumn foliage, and it is widely planted as an ornamental. The fruits are dispersed by wind. Seeds germinate easily, and a single tree can produce 5,000 or more fruits annually. This species is most invasive in open lands, such as pastures and woodlands. It is currently found growing wild in DuPage, Jackson and Union counties.

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