Acer cappadocicum is a medium to large deciduous tree in the maple family (Sapindaceae), native to mixed forests from Turkey and the Caucasus through the Himalayas to southwestern China. The common name Coliseum Maple reflects its use as an avenue tree in European parks and formal gardens. It grows 25 to 30 feet tall in zones 5 to 7, with a rounded crown and five-to-seven lobed leaves that turn clear yellow in autumn — a clean, reliable show that does not compete with the more theatrical maples but is dependably warm.

It spreads by underground suckers, a management consideration in small gardens but less of an issue where the tree is planted as a lawn specimen with room around it. It tolerates drier soils better than most maples in its size class. Moths visit the yellow spring flowers. For the larger garden that wants the presence of a maple without the cultural demands of more popular species, Coliseum Maple is a steady, underrated choice.