Colchic Red Maple

Caucasus, Asia Minor and the Himalayas. A fast-growing tree up to 15 m in height, with a broad, almost rounded, closed crown; branches very straight, already in the second year glossy green or reddish; leaves opposite, 5- or 7-lobed, 8-14 cm long, deciduous, crimson when unfolding, golden-yellow in autumn. Flowers in pale-yellow umbels appear from late May to early June; fruits 3-5 cm long, widely spaced. Tolerates temporary drought, very easily adapts, grows on calcareous as well as acidic soil, but prefers alkaline, evenly drained soil. It is suitable for an urban climate only under certain conditions; prefers a sunny or semi-shaded habitat in a warm location.