Care guide for the Maple Bonsai tree (Acer Palmatum)

Originally from China and Japan, the Acer Palmatum is one of the most popular Bonsai species. It has distinctive opposing five pointed leaves. The bark of young trees is usually green or light-red and changes into brown or light gray with age. Protect the thin leaves from too much sunlight, as they easily burn.

Position: The tree should be protected from direct sunlight in the afternoon, but morning/evening sun is no problem. The Japanese Maple is hardy, but should be protected during the winter when temperatures drop below -10 degrees C (14F).

Watering: Daily watering, especially when they start growing in early spring, assuming the soil drains well.

Feeding: Use a normal fertilizer once every three weeks.

Pruning: Normal pruning can be done year-round; though style pruning should be done in autumn to prevent excessive bleeding (it is also advisable to apply cut-paste). Cut new growth back to two pairs of leaves. Leaf pruning (removal of leaves during the growing season) can be done every other year in early summer to encourage smaller leaves. Remove all the leaves, leaving the leaf-stems intact.

Repotting: Repot trees once every two years, removing some of the roots is important.

Propagation: Either from seeds or cuttings in summer.

Example of an Acer Palmatum bonsai tree:

More information
For tree identification see the Bonsai care forum. General guidelines can be found in our Bonsai care section.