Cappadocian Maple
acer cappadocicum
Also known as: ["Cappadocian Maple","Caucasian Maple"]
Overview
A deciduous tree native to the Caucasus and parts of Asia, known for its attractive foliage and autumn color.
Benefits & Perks
["seasonal color change","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Sapindales |
| Family: | Sapindaceae |
| Genus: | Acer |
| Botanical Name: | Acer cappadocicum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden, sheltered from strong winds
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions but retain some moisture.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter such as compost or peat moss.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins; light pruning can be done as needed year-round.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if necessary, but avoid heavy pruning on young plants
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily; tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates; adjust exposure seasonally to prevent leaf scorch.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light, protect from direct midday sun, and move outdoor plants to a shaded area during peak summer heat.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sunlight; avoid placing near south-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, avoid letting the soil dry out completely, and reduce watering in winter dormancy.
Soil
moist, well-drained, fertile loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid heavy clay soils; check drainage by watering and observing runoff.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures down to 50°F (10°C) but avoid prolonged exposure below 40°F (4°C).
Use a thermometer to monitor ambient temperature; group plants to create microclimates; avoid placing near drafty windows or heating vents.
Fertilizing
monthly during spring and summer, none in fall and winter
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; adjust frequency based on growth rate.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings taken from semi-hardwood growth in late summer or early fall.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select a healthy stem, cut below a node, apply rooting hormone, plant in medium, maintain humidity, and wait for roots.
Best Time: Late summer to early fall when new growth has matured but before winter dormancy begins.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (65–75°F or 18–24°C), and indirect light.
Medium
Peat-based potting mix with added perlite or sand for drainage.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone powder to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth may appear in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic bags or propagation dome, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use stems with at least two nodes; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible to speed up rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean cuts just above a bud or branch junction; remove crossing branches and thin out dense growth to improve air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead/diseased wood, and encourage bushier growth; focus on structural improvement and health.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for larger branches), sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools, prune during dormancy, remove dead/diseased wood, make clean cuts, dispose of clippings properly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts; avoid repotting during dormancy or extreme temperatures.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure the new pot has adequate drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim any circling roots, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil, water thoroughly, and allow to settle.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot, prepare new soil mix, trim roots if needed, position plant correctly, water well, and place in suitable light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, adjust for season, avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture distribution, allowing excess water to drain freely, and watering early in the morning or late evening to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 7–10 days in spring/summer, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall/winter.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage, incorporate compost for fertility, and ensure aeration by avoiding compacted soil.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch (brown edges) in excessive heat, leaf drop or wilting in cold stress, and stunted growth in unsuitable temperatures.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow metabolic processes, cause leaf drop, and may lead to root damage if temperatures drop below freezing.
Solution: Move potted plants indoors before frost, protect roots with mulch, and maintain a stable temperature above 40°F (4°C).
Hot Stress
Excessive heat causes leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced vigor due to increased transpiration and water stress.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase humidity, and water more frequently to compensate for evaporation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type, dilute properly, apply during growing season, avoid winter feeding, flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer (10-10-10) diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; cease fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation if they ingest parts of Acer cappadocicum. The plant poses a low risk but should be kept out of reach.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Acer cappadocicum seeds or leaves may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not highly toxic but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicAcer cappadocicum contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested. The toxicity is generally low, but caution is advised due to potential irritation.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Acer cappadocicum have invasive roots?
A: Generally, its root system is non-invasive, but it can spread moderately in ideal conditions.
Q: How tall does Acer cappadocicum grow?
A: It typically reaches 15–25 meters in height.
Q: Is Acer cappadocicum suitable for small gardens?
A: It is best suited for larger spaces due to its mature size.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Sapindaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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