Japanese Maple (Acer spp.) Bonsai Care Guide
Overview
Japanese Maple bonsai are prized for their delicate leaves, striking autumn foliage, and elegant structure. Popular species include:
- Acer palmatum (Palmatum Maple) – the classic species for bonsai, with finely divided leaves.
- Acer palmatum var. dissectum (Dissected Maple) – features lace-like leaves, ideal for graceful, cascading bonsai.
- Acer palmatum ‘Deshojo’ – famed for its vibrant red spring foliage, which matures to deep green in summer before turning fiery crimson in autumn.
Japanese Maples are deciduous, allowing spectacular seasonal display, and respond beautifully to pruning and shaping.
Location
Japanese Maples thrive in bright, indirect sunlight or partial shade, as their delicate leaves can scorch in intense midday sun.
- Outdoors: Ideal for year-round growth.
- Indoors: Only for temporary display — long-term indoor placement is not recommended.
- Sunlight: Morning sun with afternoon shade is optimal, particularly for the 'Deshojo' variety, to maintain its brilliant red spring foliage.
- Temperature: Hardy in temperate climates; young or newly potted trees may need frost protection in winter.
Tip: Leaf colouration and compact growth are enhanced with morning sun exposure and shelter from harsh afternoon sun.
'Deshojo' Maple Highlight
The Deshojo Maple is a favourite among bonsai enthusiasts for its vivid red spring foliage, which contrasts beautifully against its darker green summer leaves and deep crimson autumn coloration.
- Requires morning sun and afternoon shade to maintain vibrant red colour in spring.
- Care is identical to other Japanese Maples but pay attention to water and light balance to prevent leaf scorch.
- Repeated pruning and pinching promote smaller, more compact leaves, which enhance its dramatic red display.