Overview

Prunus maackii 'Amber Beauty' is a bushy trees in the genus Prunus, part of the Rosaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 8-12 metres tall and 4-8 metres wide, reaching full size in around 10-20 years. Prunus maackii 'Amber Beauty' grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. It is attractive to pollinators. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden and wildlife gardens.

About

Prunus maackii 'Amber Beauty' is a deciduous tree that can reach heights of up to 10 meters, featuring a conical shape. Its bark is glossy and golden-brown, developing a peeling texture as it ages. In spring, it produces clusters of small, fragrant, bowl-shaped white flowers. These are succeeded by small, black fruits resembling cherries. The dark green foliage transforms to yellow in the fall.

About the genus

Prunus includes both deciduous and evergreen trees or shrubs, known for their prominent spring blooms and often vibrant fall leaf color. Several species produce edible fruit during the autumn months, while a select few are noted for their decorative bark.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Prunus

Sunlight
Full sun
Soil type
Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained
Aspect
West-facing, South-facing, East-facing
Exposure
Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness
H7

Plant details

Prunus maackii 'Amber Beauty' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
Trees
Habit
Bushy
Foliage
Deciduous
Height
8-12 metres
Spread
4-8 metres
Time to full height
10-20 years
Suggested uses
Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens
Fragrance
Flower

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Prunus maackii 'Amber Beauty'

Cultivation
Grow in moist but well-drained, moderately fertile soil in full sun
Pruning
Pruning group 1. Prune in mid-summer if silver leaf is a problem
Propagation
Propagate by budding or grafting, although softwood cuttings in early summer with bottom heat can be successful
Pest resistance
May be susceptible to aphids and caterpillars
Disease resistance
May be susceptible to peach leaf curl, silver leaf, bacterial canker, blossom wilt and honey fungus

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Prunus maackii 'Amber Beauty'?

Grow in moist but well-drained, moderately fertile soil in full sun.

Where is the best place to plant Prunus maackii 'Amber Beauty'?

Prunus maackii 'Amber Beauty' prefers full sun. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.

What soil does Prunus maackii 'Amber Beauty' need?

Prunus maackii 'Amber Beauty' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.

How do I prune Prunus maackii 'Amber Beauty'?

Pruning group 1. Prune in mid-summer if silver leaf is a problem.

How big does Prunus maackii 'Amber Beauty' grow?

Prunus maackii 'Amber Beauty' reaches a height of 8-12 metres and a spread of 4-8 metres. It takes around 10-20 years to reach full size.

Is Prunus maackii 'Amber Beauty' hardy in the UK?

Prunus maackii 'Amber Beauty' has a UK hardiness rating of H7.

How do I propagate Prunus maackii 'Amber Beauty'?

Propagate by budding or grafting, although softwood cuttings in early summer with bottom heat can be successful.

Is Prunus maackii 'Amber Beauty' good for pollinators?

Yes — Prunus maackii 'Amber Beauty' attracts and supports pollinators such as bees and other beneficial insects.