Amur Corktree (Phellodendron amurense)

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Quick Facts

  • It was introduced to the United States in 1856 for ornamental display
  • The wood is known for being rot resistant
  • It is drought and insect resistant
  • This tree is native to East Asia and Northern China
  • The inner bark was used to dye paper for special  government and religious documents in ancient China

About

The Amur corktree is a medium sized tree 30-45’ in height. They have compound leaves with 5-11 elliptical leaflets. The upper surface of the leaf is a dark green while the lower surface is a lighter green. If crushed the leaves smell of turpentine. Cork-like bark with ridges that becomes more prominent with age. Small yellow flowers open in May and June. The fruits are clusters of pea-sized berries that mature to black in October.

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