Trident Maple
Acer buergerianum
A tough, refined small maple with three-lobed (trident) leaves, handsome flaking bark, and reliable orange-red fall color, popular as a heat- and drought-tolerant urban tree and a premier bonsai species. Slow and well-behaved near pavement, it is an underused small street tree in hot climates.
Field reference
Family
Sapindaceae
Growth rate
Slow
Mature size
20–35 ft tall, 20–25 ft spread
Hardiness zone
5–9
Soil preference
Adaptable, well-drained soils; tolerates drought, heat, and compaction
Sun
Full sun to part shade
Pruning window
Dormant season; takes pruning well (a classic bonsai subject)
Wood properties
Hard, dense maple wood on a modest frame; light rigging. Exfoliating gray-orange bark and a strong, twiggy structure that responds well to training.
Native range
Native to eastern China and Japan; widely planted ornamental
Green weight
50 lb/ft³
Pests & diseases to watch
Common questions
Is trident maple good for hot, paved urban sites?
Yes — it tolerates heat, drought, and compacted soil well, stays a manageable size, and has attractive exfoliating bark, making it a solid small street and courtyard tree in warm climates.
Why is trident maple popular for bonsai?
Its small leaves, fine ramified twigs, vigorous response to pruning, and attractive surface roots and bark make it one of the most forgiving and rewarding species for bonsai training.
Related species in Sapindaceae
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