Acer tataricum is a deciduous tree native to the forests of western Asia to southeastern Europe in the maple family (Sapindaceae). Growing 15 to 30 feet in zones 3 to 8 as a multi-stemmed shrub or small tree, it is among the most cold-hardy ornamental maples available, extending the genus into climates where others would not survive. The spring flowers are greenish-white, appearing as the leaves open, followed by distinctive red-winged samaras in summer that provide a second season of colour before the foliage joins in with orange and red in autumn.

Moths visit the flowers. It is adaptable to a range of soils and tolerates exposure and cold winters with equanimity. For zone 3 and 4 gardeners who want the seasonal interest of a maple in a form that genuinely matches their conditions, Amur Maple is the answer the nursery industry has not always made sufficiently visible.