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Cappadocian Maple

Acer cappadocicum

Acer cappadocicum Acer cappadocicum

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Contents

Plant Profile

Flowering Months:
JAN  FEB  MAR  APR  MAY  JUN  JUL  AUG  SEP  OCT  NOV  DEC
Order:
Sapindales
Family:
Sapindaceae (Maple)
Also in this family:
Ashleaf Maple, Field Maple, Horse Chestnut, Indian Horse Chestnut, Norway Maple, Red Horse Chestnut, Sycamore
Type:
Deciduous tree
Life Cycle:
Perennial
Maximum Size:
25 metres tall
Habitats:
Gardens, parks, towns, woodland.

Flower:
֍
Green, no petals
 
The flowers of the Cappadocian Maple (Acer cappadocicum) are small and inconspicuous. They typically have a greenish-yellow colour. These flowers are not showy and are more notable for their function in producing seeds, rather than for their ornamental appeal. They appear in clusters of 15 to 30. Individual flowers have 5 petals each.
Fruit:
The fruit of the Cappadocian Maple (Acer cappadocicum) consists of samaras, which are also known as "keys" or "helicopter seeds." These samaras are flat and winged, measuring about 2-3 cm long. They turn brown as they mature, and when released from the tree, they twirl and spin as they fall, resembling helicopters. These seeds are responsible for the tree's propagation.
Leaves:
Deciduous tree. Smooth, opposite, palmate leaves, untoothed but with 5 to 7 sharp lobes. The veins of the leaves are star-shaped from their bases. In autumn, leaves turn golden yellow. Leaves reach 6 inches (15cm) in length.
Aroma:
The Cappadocian Maple (Acer cappadocicum) does not have a notable fragrance. It is primarily appreciated for its ornamental qualities and the visual appeal of its leaves in the autumn, rather than for any distinctive scent.
Other Names:
Caucasian Maple, Coliseum Maple.
Frequency (UK):
Common  

Similar Species

Norway Maple
Norway Maple

Other Information

Summary

Acer cappadocicum, also known as the Cappadocian maple, is a species of maple tree that is native to Turkey and the surrounding region. It typically grows to be a medium-sized tree, reaching heights of 25 meters. The leaves are typically green and lobed, and the tree produces small red or yellow flowers in the spring. The tree is drought tolerant and can grow in a variety of soils. It is often used as an ornamental tree in gardens and parks.

Blog

The Cappadocian Maple, scientifically known as Acer cappadocicum, is a species of deciduous tree native to Central Asia and the Caucasus region. It is also known as the Coliseum Maple or the Cappadocian Maple, named after the ancient region of Cappadocia in modern-day Turkey.

The Cappadocian Maple is a medium-sized tree that can grow up to 20-25 meters tall. It has a broad, spreading crown with a diameter of 10-15 meters. The bark of the tree is smooth and greyish-brown in color. The leaves of the Cappadocian Maple are large, measuring up to 15 centimeters across, and are deeply lobed with three to five pointed lobes.

One of the most striking features of the Cappadocian Maple is its stunning autumn foliage. In the fall, the leaves turn vibrant shades of yellow, orange, and red, creating a beautiful display of color. The tree also produces small, inconspicuous yellow-green flowers in the spring, followed by small, winged fruits known as samaras.

The Cappadocian Maple is a hardy tree that is adaptable to a variety of soil types and climates. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. It is also relatively resistant to pests and diseases, making it a low-maintenance tree for home gardens and landscaping.

One of the unique characteristics of the Cappadocian Maple is its ability to grow in a variety of shapes and forms. It can be grown as a single-trunked tree or trained to grow as a multi-stemmed shrub or small tree. Its versatility makes it a popular choice for use in a variety of landscape designs, including as a specimen tree, as part of a mixed border, or as a shade tree.

In addition to its ornamental value, the Cappadocian Maple also has several practical uses. The wood of the tree is strong and durable, making it ideal for use in furniture, flooring, and veneer. The tree is also used for its sap, which can be boiled down to make maple syrup.

The Cappadocian Maple is a popular tree in many regions of the world due to its beauty and adaptability. It is commonly used in parks, gardens, and public spaces for its ornamental value, providing shade and adding a touch of color to the landscape.

One of the reasons why the Cappadocian Maple is so popular is because of its fast growth rate. It can grow up to two feet per year, which means that it can quickly establish itself as a shade tree or privacy screen in a relatively short period of time.

Another reason for the tree's popularity is its low-maintenance requirements. It is a hardy tree that can withstand drought, heat, and cold temperatures, making it an ideal choice for gardeners who want a low-maintenance tree that does not require a lot of attention.

The Cappadocian Maple is also an important tree in its native regions, where it is used for a variety of purposes. In Turkey, for example, the sap of the tree is used to make a traditional sweet known as "akıtma," which is similar to maple candy. The wood of the tree is also used for fuel, furniture, and construction.

Despite its many benefits, the Cappadocian Maple is not without its drawbacks. The tree can be invasive in some regions, particularly in North America, where it has escaped cultivation and can outcompete native species. As a result, it is important to be mindful of where and how the tree is planted and to take measures to prevent it from becoming invasive.

In addition to its aesthetic and practical uses, the Cappadocian Maple also has cultural significance in several regions of the world. In Turkey, for example, the tree is a symbol of strength, resilience, and longevity. It is often planted in public spaces and parks as a reminder of the country's rich cultural heritage and natural beauty.

The Cappadocian Maple is also an important tree in traditional medicine. In Iran, the bark of the tree is used to treat fever, while in India, the leaves and bark are used to treat skin diseases and digestive issues. The tree is also used in Chinese medicine to treat inflammation, high blood pressure, and other health conditions.

Another interesting fact about the Cappadocian Maple is that it is one of the few maple species that can be grown successfully in tropical climates. While most maple trees are native to cooler regions of the world, the Cappadocian Maple can tolerate heat and humidity, making it a popular tree in tropical and subtropical regions.

The Cappadocian Maple is also a favorite tree among wildlife enthusiasts. The tree provides habitat and food for a variety of wildlife species, including birds, squirrels, and other small mammals. Its large, spreading canopy also provides shade and shelter for animals and insects, making it an important part of many ecosystems.

The Cappadocian Maple is known for its distinctive features, including its bark, leaves, and fruit. The bark of the tree is smooth and gray when young, but as the tree matures, it develops shallow grooves and fissures that give it a unique texture and appearance. The leaves are large and lobed, with a deep green color in the summer and a vibrant red, orange, or yellow color in the fall. The fruit of the tree is a samara, or winged seed, that is light brown in color and shaped like a helicopter blade.

The Cappadocian Maple is also known for its ability to adapt to a variety of soil types and growing conditions. It can grow in full sun or partial shade and prefers well-draining soil with a neutral pH. While the tree is drought-tolerant, it does require regular watering during periods of prolonged drought.

When planting a Cappadocian Maple, it is important to give it plenty of room to grow. The tree can reach heights of up to 50 feet and has a spread of up to 30 feet, so it should be planted in an area where it will have plenty of space to thrive. It is also important to prune the tree regularly to maintain its shape and prevent it from becoming too large.

In conclusion, the Cappadocian Maple is a fascinating and versatile tree with many benefits and uses. From its ornamental value to its practical uses, cultural significance, and ecological importance, this tree is an excellent choice for anyone looking to add beauty and function to their outdoor space. Whether grown for its stunning fall foliage, its adaptability to a range of growing conditions, or its cultural and ecological significance, the Cappadocian Maple is a tree that is sure to impress.

30 Facts About the Cappadocian Maple

Cappadocian Maple, scientifically known as Acer cappadocicum, is a fascinating tree species. Here are 30 facts about the Cappadocian Maple:

  1. Acer cappadocicum is native to the region of Cappadocia, in central Turkey.

  2. It is commonly referred to as Cappadocian Maple or Cappadocian Maple Tree.

  3. This maple species is deciduous, meaning it sheds its leaves in the fall.

  4. Cappadocian Maples typically grow to be medium-sized trees, reaching heights of around 30-40 feet (9-12 meters).

  5. The leaves of the Cappadocian Maple are typically lobed with a green color and sometimes a reddish tint in the fall.

  6. In spring, Cappadocian Maples produce clusters of small, inconspicuous yellow-green flowers.

  7. The tree's samara (winged fruit) measures about 2-3 cm long and is often produced in abundance.

  8. Cappadocian Maple bark is smooth and gray when young, becoming ridged and furrowed as it matures.

  9. It's known for its adaptability to various soil types, making it a hardy tree.

  10. Cappadocian Maples are often planted as ornamental trees in parks and gardens.

  11. They are appreciated for their shade-providing capabilities.

  12. These maples are also popular for their attractive, fall foliage.

  13. The wood of Cappadocian Maples is used for various woodworking applications.

  14. They are also valued as street trees in some urban areas.

  15. Cappadocian Maples can be propagated through seeds or cuttings.

  16. The Latin name "cappadocicum" is derived from Cappadocia, the region in Turkey where it is native.

  17. This maple species belongs to the family Aceraceae, which includes all maple trees.

  18. Cappadocian Maples can withstand urban pollution.

  19. In their natural habitat, they can be found growing in deciduous forests and along riverbanks.

  20. These maples have an attractive, rounded canopy shape.

  21. They are considered low-maintenance trees in landscaping.

  22. The sap of Cappadocian Maples can be used to make syrup, although it is less commonly done compared to sugar maples.

  23. The fall color of the leaves varies from yellow to orange and red.

  24. In autumn, Cappadocian Maples create a picturesque display of colorful leaves.

  25. The growth rate of Cappadocian Maples is generally moderate.

  26. They can tolerate a range of temperatures but prefer a temperate climate.

  27. These maples can be pruned to maintain their shape and size.

  28. The wood of Cappadocian Maples is often used for making furniture and musical instruments.

  29. The tree provides habitat and food for various wildlife, including birds and insects.

  30. Cappadocian Maples have become an important part of urban and suburban landscapes due to their adaptability, aesthetic appeal, and overall hardiness.

Video

Cappadocian Maple filmed at Haigh Hall in Lancashire on the 15th and 16th of September 2023.

 

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Distribution Map

Reproduced by kind permission of the BSBI.

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