29 Types of Japanese Maple Bonsai You Must Try

Japanese Maple bonsai trees are highly sought after for their delicate foliage, vibrant colors, and graceful form. Here are some popular types of Japanese Maple bonsai:

* All these Japanese maple bonsai varieties will require regular watering, pruning, and fertilization to maintain their health and beauty. For complete care guide, continue reading about Japanese maple bonsai tree care. Scroll below the table to read about specific features such as foliage shape/texture, growth habit, bark texture etc.

	Name	Common Name & Varieties	Leaf color	Features
1	Acer palmatum ‘Deshojo’	Japanese Maple 'Deshojo'	Shades of red in the spring. Darker red in the summer.	Compact, dense, full sun / partial-shade, Zone: 5-8
2	Acer palmatum ‘Kiyohime‘	Kiyohime Japanese Maple / Spreading Japanese Maple	Shades of green in Spring. Bright yellow in fall.	Dwarf variety, full sun / partial-shade, Zone: 5-8
3	Acer palmatum ‘nishiki gawa’	Nishiki Gawa Japanese Maple	Shades of green in Spring. Bright yellow in fall.	Small, compact, attractive bark, partial shade / full sun, Zone:5-8
4	Acer palmatum ‘shin Deshojo’	Shin deshojo Japanese Maple	Shades of pinkish-red in the spring	"Improved" version of Deshojo. Smaller, compact. Partial shade / Full sun, Zone: 5-8
5	Acer palmatum 'Arakawa'	Arakawa Japanese Maple / Rough bark Japanese Maple	Shades of green in the spring. Bright red and orange in the fall.	Small to large shrub, compact, long-lived. "Improved" version of Deshojo. Smaller, compact. Partial shade / Full sun, Zone: 5-8
6	Acer Palmatum 'Beni Chidori'	Beni Chidori Japanese Maple	Deep red-purple color in the spring and summer. Bright red-orange in the fall	Slow-growing, compact, partial shade / full sun, Zone:5-8
7	Acer palmatum 'Beni Hime'	Beni hime Japanese Maple	Shades of green in the spring. Bright red and orange in the fall.	Small shrub, compact, partial shade / full sun, Zone:5-8
8	Acer palmatum 'dissectum'	Dissected Japanese Maple	Colors varies depending on the specific variety. Green, red, deep purple to light orange.	Many varieties from this species are used to make bonsai such as : Red Dragon, Crimson Queen, Tamukeyama, Waterfall, Viridis. Cascading growth habit, lacy or finely-divided leaves, flowering, partial shade / full sun, Zone:5-8
9	Acer palmatum 'Effegi'	Fireglow Japanese Maple	Deep red color. Intensifies in the spring and fall.	Small and compact, partial shade / full sun, Zone:5-8
10	Acer palmatum 'Kashima'	Kashima Japanese Maple	Bright green color in the spring and summer. vivid red-orange color in the fall.	Small to medium-sized, broad, upright growth habit, partial shade / full sun, Zone:5-9
11	Acer palmatum 'Katsura'	Katsura Japanese Maple	Bright green color in the spring and summer. Vibrant red-orange in the fall.	Small / medium sized, Weeping and cascading growth habit, partial shade / full sun, Zone:5-9
12	Acer palmatum 'Kurenai jishi'	Red Lions' Head Japanese Maple	Deep red color throughout the growing season	Small / medium sized, dense and bushy branches resemble head of a lion, partial shade / full sun, Zone:5-9
13	Acer palmatum 'mikawa yatsubusa'	Mikawa Yatsubusa Japanese Maple	Deep green. Brilliant shade of orange, red, and yellow in fall	small sized, compact, layered horizontal growth pattern, partial shade / full sun, Zone:5-8.
14	Acer palmatum 'Sango kaku'	coral bark Japanese Maple	Bright green. Shade of yellow or orange in fall.	Small sized, compact, upright spreading habit, partial shade / full sun, Zone:5-8.
15	Acer palmatum 'seigen'	Seigen Japanese Maple	Bright green in spring. Yellow and orange in fall.	Small sized, upright ireegular spreading habit, partial shade / full sun, Zone:5-9.
16	Acer palmatum 'Seiryu'	Seiryu Japanese Maple	Bright green in spring. Yellow and orange in fall.	Small sized, upright ireegular spreading habit, partial shade / full sun, Zone:5-9.
17	Acer palmatum 'shishigashira'	Lion's Head Japanese Maple	Bright green in spring, Bronze in summer, orange and red in fall.	Large tree but small bonsai, dense branches resembling lion's mane, partial shade / full sun, Zone:5-9.
18	Acer palmatum 'Ukigumo'	Ukigumo Japanese Maple / Floating clouds Japanese Maple	White and pink edging that fades to light green. Shades of yellow, orange, and red in fall	Medium/large sized, weeping growth habit, partial shade / full sun, Zone:5-8.
19	Acer palmatum 'Wolff'	Emperor Japanese Maple	Dark green. Orange and red in the fall.	Medium/large sized, upright growth habit, partial shade / full sun, Zone:5-8.
20	Acer palmatum 'Bloodgood'	Bloodgood Japanese Maple	Deep burgundy	Medium/large sized, bushy dense rounded growth habit, partial shade / full sun, Zone:5-8.
21	Acer palmatum 'Butterfly'	Butterfly Japanese Maple	Green with white margins. Shades of yellow, orange, and red in fall.	Fits all sizes, butterfly-like pattern on leaves, upright and spreading growth, partial shade / full sun, Zone:5-8.
22	Acer palmatum 'Kamagata'	Kamagata Japanese Maple	Bright green in spring and summer. Yellow, orange, or red in the fall.	Small / medium sized, rounded mounding growth habit, partial shade / full sun, Zone:5-9.
23	Acer palmatum 'Koto maru'	Koto maru Japanese Maple / Koto maru Dwarf Japanese Maple	Green in spring and summer. Vibrant shades of orange and red in the fall.	Small sized, dense, bushy, slow-growing, partial shade / full sun, Zone:5-9.
24	Acer palmatum 'Kuro Hime'	Kuro hime Japanese Maple	Bright green in the spring. Reddish-purple in the fall.	Small sized, slow-growing, dense, partial shade / full sun, Zone:5-8.
25	Acer palmatum 'Osakazuki'	Osakazuki Japanese Maple	Deep green. Bright red in fall.	Medium sized tree, small / medium sized bonsai, hardy, upright, partial shade / full sun, Zone:5-8.
26	Acer palmatum 'Pixie'	Pixie Japanese Maple	Bright green in spring and summer. Shades of yellow, orange, and red in autumn.	Small sized, cascading growth habit, partial shade / full sun, Zone:5-8.
27	Acer palmatum 'Purple Ghost'	Purple Ghost Japanese Maple	Purple-red color that fades to green as the leaves mature. Orange and red in fall.	Small / medium sized, upright slightly cascading growth habit, partial shade / full sun, Zone:6-9.
28	Acer palmatum 'Ryusen'	Ryusen Japanese Maple / Weeping Japanese maple	Bright green color in the spring. Yellow, orange, and red in the fall.	Small / medium sized, cascading, weeping growth habit, partial shade / full sun, Zone:5-9
29	Acer palmatum 'Shaina'	Shaina Japanese Maple	Greenish-red in summer. Bright red in spring and fall.	Small sized, Compact, dense, partial shade / full sun, Zone:5-8.

1. Deshojo Japanese Maple Bonsai

Deshojo Japanese Maple is a popular variety of Japanese maple that is also a popular choice for bonsai enthusiasts. When grown as a bonsai, it exhibits several unique features:

Small size: As a bonsai, ‘Deshojo’ is grown as a small, compact tree that typically reaches a height of 1-2 feet.
Delicate foliage: The leaves of ‘Deshojo’ are deeply lobed and have a delicate, lacy appearance, making them well-suited for the miniature scale of a bonsai.
Spring color: In the spring, the leaves of the ‘Deshojo’ bonsai emerge a vibrant shade of red, providing a striking contrast against the tree’s bark and adding to its overall visual appeal.
Trunk and bark: When grown as a bonsai, the trunk and bark of the ‘Deshojo’ are often trained to exhibit interesting shapes and textures, adding to the tree’s visual interest.
Sunlight requirements: This maple bonsai prefers partial shade or filtered sunlight, as direct sunlight can scorch its delicate foliage.
Soil requirements: Deshojo Japanese Maple Bonsai prefers well-draining, slightly acidic soil that is rich in organic matter.
Hardiness: This bonsai is hardy to USDA zones 5-8, making it a good choice for gardeners in a wide range of climates.
Care requirements: Like all bonsai, the ‘Deshojo’ bonsai requires careful attention to watering, fertilizing, pruning, and training in order to maintain its health and shape.

2. Kiyohime Japanese Maple Bonsai

Kiyohime Japanese Maple Bonsai is known for its compact size and beautiful foliage. Here are some of its notable features:

Small size: As a bonsai, the Kiyohime Japanese Maple is grown as a small, compact tree that typically reaches a height of 1-2 feet.
Foliage: The leaves of the Kiyohime Japanese Maple are small and deeply lobed, giving them a delicate and intricate appearance. They emerge in shades of green in the spring and turn a bright yellow-orange in the fall.
Growth habit: The Kiyohime Japanese Maple has a dense, bushy growth habit, which makes it an ideal choice for bonsai cultivation.
Sunlight requirements: This maple bonsai prefers partial shade or filtered sunlight, as direct sunlight can scorch its delicate foliage.
Soil requirements: Kiyohime Japanese Maple Bonsai prefers well-draining, slightly acidic soil that is rich in organic matter.
Hardiness: This bonsai is hardy to USDA zones 5-8, making it a good choice for gardeners in a wide range of climates.
Disease resistance: ‘Kiyohime’ is resistant to many common diseases and pests that affect Japanese maples, making it a low-maintenance option for gardeners.

3. Nishiki gawa Japanese Maple Bonsai

Nishiki gawa Japanese Maple Bonsai is known for its combination of striking foliage, interesting bark, and a compact growth habit. Here are some of its notable features:

Small size: As a bonsai, the Nishiki gawa Japanese Maple is grown as a small, compact tree that typically reaches a height of 1-2 feet.
Foliage: The leaves of the Nishiki gawa Japanese Maple are deeply lobed and have a delicate, lacy appearance. They emerge in shades of green in the spring and turn a bright yellow-orange in the fall.
Bark: The bark of the Nishiki gawa Japanese Maple is particularly striking, featuring a patchwork of green, white, and pink hues that provide year-round interest.
Growth habit: The Nishiki gawa Japanese Maple has a dense, bushy growth habit, which makes it an ideal choice for bonsai cultivation.
Sunlight requirements: This maple bonsai prefers partial shade or filtered sunlight, as direct sunlight can scorch its delicate foliage.
Soil requirements: Nishiki gawa Japanese Maple Bonsai prefers well-draining, slightly acidic soil that is rich in organic matter.
Hardiness: This bonsai is hardy to USDA zones 5-8, making it a good choice for gardeners in a wide range of climates.

It requires careful attention to watering, fertilizing, pruning, and training in order to maintain its health and shape, but the effort is well worth it for the beauty it adds to any setting.

4. Shin Deshojo Japanese Maple Bonsai

Shin Deshojo is sometimes called as the “improved” version of deshojo. Shin Deshojo Japanese Maple Bonsai is a beautiful and unique addition to any bonsai collection, offering a combination of striking foliage, interesting bark, and a compact growth habit.

Small size: As a bonsai, the Shin Deshojo Japanese Maple is grown as a small, compact tree that typically reaches a height of 1-2 feet.
Foliage: The leaves of the Shin Deshojo Japanese Maple are deeply lobed and have a delicate, lacy appearance. They emerge in shades of pinkish-red in the spring and turn green in the summer, before taking on bright red and orange hues in the fall.
Bark: The bark of the Shin Deshojo Japanese Maple is particularly striking, featuring a patchwork of pink, green, and white hues that provide year-round interest.
Growth habit: The Shin Deshojo Japanese Maple has a dense, bushy growth habit, which makes it an ideal choice for bonsai cultivation.
Sunlight requirements: This maple bonsai prefers partial shade or filtered sunlight, as direct sunlight can scorch its delicate foliage.
Soil requirements: Shin Deshojo Japanese Maple Bonsai prefers well-draining, slightly acidic soil that is rich in organic matter.
Hardiness: This bonsai is hardy to USDA zones 5-8, making it a good choice for gardeners in a wide range of climates.

5. Arakawa Japanese Maple Bonsai

Shin Arakawa Japanese Maple is a beautiful and unique addition to any landscape, offering a combination of striking foliage, interesting bark, and a compact growth habit.

Size: Shin Arakawa Japanese Maple is a small tree or large shrub that typically grows to a height of 8-12 feet and a width of 6-8 feet.
Foliage: The leaves of the Shin Arakawa Japanese Maple are deeply lobed and have a delicate, lacy appearance. They emerge in shades of green in the spring and turn bright red and orange in the fall.
Bark: The bark of the Shin Arakawa Japanese Maple is particularly striking, featuring deep grooves and fissures that create a textured, rugged appearance. The bark is a grayish-brown color, with hints of green and orange.
Growth habit: Shin Arakawa Japanese Maple has a dense, bushy growth habit, which makes it an ideal choice for smaller gardens or as a focal point in larger landscapes.
Sunlight requirements: This maple prefers partial shade or filtered sunlight, as direct sunlight can scorch its delicate foliage.
Soil requirements: Shin Arakawa Japanese Maple prefers well-draining, slightly acidic soil that is rich in organic matter.
Hardiness: This tree is hardy to USDA zones 5-8, making it a good choice for gardeners in a wide range of climates.

6. Beni Chidori Japanese Maple bonsai

Beni Chidori Japanese Maple bonsai offers a combination of striking foliage, a compact growth habit, and a relatively easy-to-care-for nature.

Size: The Beni Chidori Japanese Maple bonsai is a small tree that typically grows to a height of 2-3 feet and a width of 2-3 feet.
Foliage: The leaves of the Beni Chidori Japanese Maple bonsai are deeply lobed and have a delicate, lacy appearance. They emerge in shades of red in the spring and turn greenish-red in the summer before turning back to red in the fall.
Bark: The bark of the Beni Chidori Japanese Maple bonsai is a grayish-brown color, with a smooth texture.
Growth habit: Beni Chidori Japanese Maple bonsai has a compact, bushy growth habit, which makes it an ideal choice for bonsai enthusiasts who want to create a miniature tree.
Sunlight requirements: This bonsai prefers partial shade or filtered sunlight, as direct sunlight can scorch its delicate foliage.
Soil requirements: Beni Chidori Japanese Maple bonsai prefers well-draining, slightly acidic soil that is rich in organic matter.
Hardiness: This bonsai is hardy to USDA zones 5-8, making it a good choice for bonsai enthusiasts in a wide range of climates.

7. Beni Hime Japanese Maple bonsai

Beni Hime Japanese Maple bonsai is a beautiful, easy to care for and unique bonsai. It has striking foliage and a compact growth habit.

Size: The Beni Hime Japanese Maple bonsai is a small tree that typically grows to a height of 2-3 feet and a width of 2-3 feet.
Foliage: The leaves of the Beni Hime Japanese Maple bonsai are small and delicate, with deeply lobed edges. They emerge in shades of green in the spring and turn bright red and orange in the fall.
Bark: The bark of the Beni Hime Japanese Maple bonsai is a grayish-brown color, with a smooth texture.
Growth habit: Beni Hime Japanese Maple bonsai has a compact, bushy growth habit, which makes it an ideal choice for bonsai enthusiasts who want to create a miniature tree.
Sunlight requirements: This bonsai prefers partial shade or filtered sunlight, as direct sunlight can scorch its delicate foliage.
Soil requirements: Beni Hime Japanese Maple bonsai prefers well-draining, slightly acidic soil that is rich in organic matter.
Hardiness: This bonsai is hardy to USDA zones 5-8, making it a good choice for bonsai enthusiasts in a wide range of climates.

8. Dissectum Japanese maple bonsai

There are many Dissectum varieties used for making bonsai. Some of the popular Dissectum varieties are: Red Dragon japanese maple bonsai, Crimson Queen japanese maple bonsai, Tamukeyama japanese maple bonsai, Waterfall japanese maple bonsai, Viridis japanese maple bonsai. These species have delicate lacy foliage, a cascading growth habit, and a relatively easy-to-care-for nature. The color of the foliage depends on the specific variety.

Size: The Dissectum Japanese Maple bonsai is a small tree that typically grows to a height of 2-3 feet and a width of 2-3 feet.
Foliage: The leaves of the Dissectum Japanese Maple bonsai are deeply lobed and finely divided, giving them a delicate and intricate appearance. They emerge in shades of green in the spring and turn bright red and orange in the fall.
Bark: The bark of the Dissectum Japanese Maple bonsai is a grayish-brown color, with a smooth texture.
Growth habit: Dissectum Japanese Maple bonsai has a cascading growth habit, with branches that tend to droop down towards the ground. This makes it an ideal choice for bonsai enthusiasts who want to create a miniature tree with a flowing, graceful appearance.
Sunlight requirements: This bonsai prefers partial shade or filtered sunlight, as direct sunlight can scorch its delicate foliage.
Soil requirements: Dissectum Japanese Maple bonsai prefers well-draining, slightly acidic soil that is rich in organic matter.
Hardiness: This bonsai is hardy to USDA zones 5-8, making it a good choice for bonsai enthusiasts in a wide range of climates.

9. Fireglow Japanese Maple bonsai

Fireglow Japanese Maple bonsai is a stunning and vibrant addition to any bonsai collection, offering a striking combination of vibrant deep red foliage, a compact growth habit, and a relatively easy-to-care-for nature.

Size: The Fireglow Japanese Maple bonsai is a small tree that typically grows to a height of 3-6 feet and a width of 3-6 feet.
Foliage: The leaves of the Fireglow Japanese Maple bonsai are a deep red color, which intensifies in the spring and fall. The leaves are deeply lobed and have a delicate appearance.
Bark: The bark of the Fireglow Japanese Maple bonsai is a dark brown color with a smooth texture.
Growth habit: Fireglow Japanese Maple bonsai has a compact and upright growth habit, with dense branching and a rounded crown. This makes it an ideal choice for bonsai enthusiasts who want to create a miniature tree with a striking and eye-catching appearance.
Sunlight requirements: This bonsai prefers partial shade or filtered sunlight, as direct sunlight can scorch its delicate foliage.
Soil requirements: Fireglow Japanese Maple bonsai prefers well-draining, slightly acidic soil that is rich in organic matter.
Hardiness: This bonsai is hardy to USDA zones 5-8, making it a good choice for bonsai enthusiasts in a wide range of climates.

10. Kashima Japanese Maple bonsai

Kashima Japanese Maple bonsai is a beautiful and elegant bonsai. It offers a striking combination of bright green foliage, a broad growth habit, and a relatively easy-care-for nature.

Size: The Kashima Japanese Maple bonsai is a small to medium-sized tree that typically grows to a height of 6-10 feet and a width of 6-10 feet.
Foliage: The leaves of the Kashima Japanese Maple bonsai are a bright green color in the spring and summer, turning to a vivid red-orange color in the fall. The leaves are deeply lobed and have a delicate appearance.
Bark: The bark of the Kashima Japanese Maple bonsai is a smooth gray color that develops interesting patterns with age.
Growth habit: Kashima Japanese Maple bonsai has a broad, upright growth habit with a rounded crown. This makes it an ideal choice for bonsai enthusiasts who want to create a medium-sized tree with an elegant and refined appearance.
Sunlight requirements: This bonsai prefers partial shade or filtered sunlight, as direct sunlight can scorch its delicate foliage.
Soil requirements: Kashima Japanese Maple bonsai prefers well-draining, slightly acidic soil that is rich in organic matter.
Hardiness: This bonsai is hardy to USDA zones 5-9, making it a good choice for bonsai enthusiasts in a wide range of climates.

11. Katsura Japanese Maple bonsai

Katsura Japanese Maple bonsai is a beautiful and delicate bonsai. It has a stunning combination of bright green foliage, a weeping growth habit, and is relatively easy to care for.

Size: The Katsura Japanese Maple bonsai is a small to medium-sized tree that typically grows to a height of 6-10 feet and a width of 6-10 feet.
Foliage: The leaves of the Katsura Japanese Maple bonsai are a bright green color in the spring and summer, turning to a vibrant red-orange in the fall. The leaves are deeply lobed and have a delicate appearance.
Bark: The bark of the Katsura Japanese Maple bonsai is smooth and gray in color, with interesting patterns that develop with age.
Growth habit: Katsura Japanese Maple bonsai has a delicate, weeping growth habit with a cascading form. This makes it an ideal choice for bonsai enthusiasts who want to create a smaller, more graceful tree with an elegant and refined appearance.
Sunlight requirements: This bonsai prefers partial shade or filtered sunlight, as direct sunlight can scorch its delicate foliage.
Soil requirements: Katsura Japanese Maple bonsai prefers well-draining, slightly acidic soil that is rich in organic matter.
Hardiness: This bonsai is hardy to USDA zones 5-9, making it a good choice for bonsai enthusiasts in a wide range of climates.

12. Red Lions’ Head Japanese Maple bonsai

Red Lions’ Head Japanese Maple bonsai is a stunning and memorable bonsai. Its unique growth habit and deep red foliage make it a standout among other bonsai varieties, and its hardiness and relative ease of care make it a good choice for bonsai enthusiasts of all levels.

Size: The Red Lions’ Head Japanese Maple bonsai is a small to medium-sized tree that typically grows to a height of 3-5 feet and a width of 3-5 feet.
Foliage: The leaves of this bonsai are a deep red color throughout the growing season, making it a standout in any collection. The leaves are deeply lobed and have a delicate and intricate appearance.
Bark: The bark of the Red Lions’ Head Japanese Maple bonsai is smooth and gray, with interesting patterns that develop with age.
Growth habit: This bonsai has a unique growth habit, with its branches growing in a dense, bushy pattern that resembles the head of a lion. This gives it a distinctive and memorable appearance.
Sunlight requirements: The Red Lions’ Head Japanese Maple bonsai prefers partial shade or filtered sunlight, as direct sunlight can scorch its delicate foliage.
Soil requirements: This bonsai prefers well-draining, slightly acidic soil that is rich in organic matter.
Hardiness: The Red Lions’ Head Japanese Maple bonsai is hardy to USDA zones 5-9, making it a good choice for bonsai enthusiasts in a wide range of climates.

13. Mikawa Yatsubusa Japanese Maple bonsai

Mikawa Yatsubusa Japanese Maple bonsai is a highly desirable bonsai because of its unique growth habit, compact size, and delicate foliage.

Size: The Mikawa Yatsubusa Japanese Maple bonsai is a small tree that typically grows up to 3-4 feet tall and wide.
Foliage: The leaves of this bonsai are small and delicate, with a deep green color throughout the growing season. In autumn, the foliage turns a brilliant shade of orange, red, and yellow.
Bark: The bark of the Mikawa Yatsubusa Japanese Maple bonsai is smooth and gray, with interesting patterns that develop with age.
Growth habit: This bonsai has a compact growth habit, with a dense and bushy appearance that is highly prized by bonsai enthusiasts. The branches grow in a layered and horizontal pattern, giving it a unique and memorable appearance.
Sunlight requirements: The Mikawa Yatsubusa Japanese Maple bonsai prefers partial shade or filtered sunlight, as direct sunlight can scorch its delicate foliage.
Soil requirements: This bonsai prefers well-draining, slightly acidic soil that is rich in organic matter.
Hardiness: The Mikawa Yatsubusa Japanese Maple bonsai is hardy to USDA zones 5-8, making it a good choice for bonsai enthusiasts in a range of climates.

14. Coral bark Japanese Maple

Its striking coral-red bark, graceful growth habit, and delicate foliage make it a standout among other bonsai varieties.

Size: The Coral bark Japanese Maple bonsai is a small to medium-sized tree, typically growing up to 15 feet tall in its natural form. In bonsai form, it can be trained to a much smaller size.
Foliage: The leaves of this bonsai are typically 2-5 inches long, with 5-7 lobes and a bright green color throughout the growing season. In autumn, the foliage turns a brilliant shade of yellow or orange.
Bark: The most distinctive feature of this bonsai is its coral-red bark, which is particularly vivid in winter. As the tree ages, the bark can become rough and textured, adding interest and character to the bonsai.
Growth habit: The Coral bark Japanese Maple bonsai has a upright growth habit with a graceful, spreading form. The branches grow in a layered pattern, creating a sense of depth and dimension.
Sunlight requirements: This bonsai prefers partial shade or filtered sunlight, as direct sunlight can scorch its delicate foliage.
Soil requirements: This bonsai prefers well-draining, slightly acidic soil that is rich in organic matter.
Hardiness: This bonsai is hardy to USDA zones 5-9, making it suitable for a wide range of climates.

15. Seigen Japanese Maple bonsai

Seigen Japanese Maple bonsai is a beautiful bonsai with its delicate foliage, textured bark, and irregular growth habit.

Foliage: The leaves of this bonsai are typically small, with 5-7 lobes and a delicate texture. The color of the leaves varies throughout the growing season, starting out a bright green in spring, transitioning to yellow and orange in fall.
Bark: The bark of Seigen Japanese Maple bonsai is smooth and grey, with prominent striations that add texture and interest.
Size: This bonsai typically grows to a height of 10-15 feet in its natural form, but can be trained to a much smaller size in bonsai form.
Growth habit: The Seigen Japanese Maple bonsai has an upright growth habit with a somewhat irregular, spreading form. The branches grow in a layered pattern, creating a sense of depth and dimension.
Sunlight requirements: This bonsai prefers partial shade or filtered sunlight, as direct sunlight can scorch its delicate foliage.
Soil requirements: This bonsai prefers well-draining, slightly acidic soil that is rich in organic matter.
Hardiness: The Seigen Japanese Maple bonsai is hardy to USDA zones 5-9, making it suitable for a wide range of climates.

16. Seiryu Japanese Maple bonsai

Seiryu Japanese Maple bonsai has finely cut foliage, textured bark, and cascading growth habit.

Foliage: The leaves of this bonsai are finely cut, with a lacy appearance that adds to its delicate beauty. The color of the leaves varies throughout the growing season, starting out a bright green in spring, transitioning to orange and red in fall.
Bark: The bark of Seiryu Japanese Maple bonsai is smooth and grey, with a unique pattern of vertical white lines that create a striking contrast.
Size: This bonsai typically grows to a height of 10-15 feet in its natural form, but can be trained to a much smaller size in bonsai form.
Growth habit: The Seiryu Japanese Maple bonsai has a unique growth habit that sets it apart from other Japanese maple cultivars. It grows in an upright, vase-like shape with branches that form a graceful, cascading pattern.
Sunlight requirements: This bonsai prefers partial shade or filtered sunlight, as direct sunlight can scorch its delicate foliage.
Soil requirements: This bonsai prefers well-draining, slightly acidic soil that is rich in organic matter.
Hardiness: The Seiryu Japanese Maple bonsai is hardy to USDA zones 5-8, making it suitable for a wide range of climates.

17. Lion’s Head Japanese Maple bonsai

Lion’s Head Japanese Maple bonsai has deeply lobed foliage, textured bark, and rounded growth habit.

Foliage: The leaves of Lion’s Head Japanese Maple bonsai are deeply lobed, with a crinkled texture that gives them a unique appearance. The color of the leaves varies throughout the growing season, starting out a bright green in spring, transitioning to bronze in summer, and then to orange and red in fall.
Bark: The bark of this bonsai is smooth and grey, with a slightly rough texture that adds to its visual interest.
Size: In its natural form, Lion’s Head Japanese Maple can grow up to 20 feet tall, but when grown as a bonsai, it is typically trained to a much smaller size, ranging from 1-5 feet in height.
Growth habit: The Lion’s Head Japanese Maple bonsai has a unique growth habit, with branches that grow in a dense, rounded shape resembling a lion’s mane.
Sunlight requirements: This bonsai prefers partial shade or filtered sunlight, as direct sunlight can scorch its delicate foliage.
Soil requirements: This bonsai prefers well-draining, slightly acidic soil that is rich in organic matter.
Hardiness: Lion’s Head Japanese Maple bonsai is hardy to USDA zones 5-8, making it suitable for a wide range of climates.

18. Ukigumo Japanese Maple bonsai

Ukigumo Japanese Maple bonsai has variegated foliage, graceful growth habit, and striking color display in the fall.

Foliage: The leaves of Ukigumo Japanese Maple bonsai are variegated, with white and pink edging that gradually fades to light green. In the fall, the leaves turn to shades of yellow, orange, and red, creating a beautiful display.
Bark: The bark of this bonsai is smooth and grey, with a slightly rough texture that adds to its visual interest.
Size: When grown as a bonsai, Ukigumo Japanese Maple can range from 1-5 feet in height.
Growth habit: The Ukigumo Japanese Maple bonsai has a somewhat weeping growth habit, with branches that droop downward and create a graceful appearance.
Sunlight requirements: This bonsai prefers partial shade or filtered sunlight, as direct sunlight can scorch its delicate foliage.
Soil requirements: This bonsai prefers well-draining, slightly acidic soil that is rich in organic matter.
Hardiness: Ukigumo Japanese Maple bonsai is hardy to USDA zones 5-8, making it suitable for a wide range of climates.

19. Emperor Japanese Maple bonsai

Emperor Japanese Maple bonsai has dark green foliage, strong growth habit, and vibrant fall color.

Foliage: The leaves of Emperor Japanese Maple bonsai are deeply lobed and have a rich, dark green color that turns to shades of orange and red in the fall.
Bark: The bark of this bonsai is smooth and grey, with a slightly rough texture that adds to its visual interest.
Size: When grown as a bonsai, Emperor Japanese Maple can range from 1-5 feet in height.
Growth habit: The Emperor Japanese Maple bonsai has an upright growth habit, with a strong central trunk and branches that radiate outwards.
Sunlight requirements: This bonsai prefers partial shade or filtered sunlight, as direct sunlight can scorch its delicate foliage.
Soil requirements: Emperor Japanese Maple bonsai prefers well-draining, slightly acidic soil that is rich in organic matter.
Hardiness: Emperor Japanese Maple bonsai is hardy to USDA zones 5-8, making it suitable for a wide range of climates.

20. Bloodgood Japanese Maple bonsai

Bloodgood Japanese Maple bonsai is a popular choice for its striking foliage, hardiness, and manageable size.

Foliage: The Bloodgood Japanese Maple bonsai has deep red leaves that are deeply lobed and almost palmate in shape. The leaves turn a vibrant crimson red in the fall.
Size: Bloodgood Japanese Maple bonsai can grow up to 10 feet tall and wide, but the bonsai version is smaller and more manageable, usually reaching a height of 2-3 feet.
Bark: The bark of Bloodgood Japanese Maple bonsai is dark and smooth, with interesting patterns and ridges as the tree ages.
Shape: Bloodgood Japanese Maple bonsai has an upright and spreading growth habit, making it a popular choice for bonsai enthusiasts who prefer a more natural, tree-like shape.
Hardy: This bonsai is cold-hardy and can withstand temperatures down to -20°F, making it a great option for outdoor bonsai cultivation. Bloodgood Japanese Maple bonsai is hardy to USDA zones 5-8.
Care: Bloodgood Japanese Maple bonsai prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade to full sun. Regular pruning and shaping are necessary to maintain its desired shape.

21. Butterfly Japanese Maple bonsai

Leaves: The Butterfly Japanese Maple bonsai has deeply divided leaves that are green with white margins. The variegated leaves have a butterfly-like pattern, giving the tree its name.
Size: This bonsai typically grows to a height of around 3-6 feet, making it a great choice for smaller gardens or indoor spaces.
Growth habit: The Butterfly Japanese Maple bonsai has an upright growth habit with a spreading crown that gives it a beautiful, elegant appearance.
Fall color: In the fall, the leaves turn shades of yellow, orange, and red, creating a stunning display of color.
Bark: The bark of this bonsai is smooth and gray, with occasional patches of white.
Hardy: The Butterfly Japanese Maple bonsai is hardy and can tolerate a range of temperatures, making it suitable for growing in many climates. Butterfly Japanese Maple bonsai is hardy to USDA zones 5-8.
Low maintenance: This bonsai is relatively low maintenance, requiring only occasional pruning and watering to keep it healthy and looking its best.

22. Kamagata Japanese Maple bonsai

Leaves: The Kamagata Japanese Maple bonsai has small, deeply lobed leaves that are bright green in spring and summer, and turn yellow, orange, or red in the fall.
Size: This bonsai typically grows to a height of 2-4 feet, making it a great choice for smaller gardens or indoor spaces.
Growth habit: The Kamagata Japanese Maple bonsai has a naturally rounded, mounding growth habit that gives it a unique, pleasing shape.
Bark: The bark of this bonsai is smooth and gray, with occasional patches of white or green.
Hardy: The Kamagata Japanese Maple bonsai is hardy and can tolerate a range of temperatures, making it suitable for growing in many climates. Kamagata Japanese Maple bonsai is hardy to USDA zones 5-8.
Low maintenance: This bonsai is relatively low maintenance, requiring only occasional pruning and watering to keep it healthy and looking its best.
Unique shape: The rounded, mounding shape of the Kamagata Japanese Maple bonsai makes it a distinctive and eye-catching addition to any garden or indoor space.

23. Koto maru Japanese Maple

Koto maru Japanese Maple, also known as Koto maru Dwarf Japanese Maple, is a small deciduous tree that is commonly grown as a bonsai. It is a popular choice for bonsai enthusiasts due to its compact size and attractive features and slow growth habit.

Size: Koto maru is a small tree that typically grows up to 4-6 feet tall, making it a great choice for bonsai cultivation.
Leaves: The leaves of Koto maru Japanese Maple are small and have a rounded shape with a serrated edge. They are typically green in the spring and summer but turn to vibrant shades of orange and red in the fall.
Bark: The bark of Koto maru Japanese Maple is smooth and grey in color, providing an interesting contrast to the bright green foliage.
Branches: Koto maru Japanese Maple has a dense, bushy growth habit with many small branches that are perfect for shaping and training in bonsai.
Hardy: Koto maru Japanese Maple is hardy and can tolerate a range of growing conditions, including full sun or partial shade and various soil types. Koto maru Japanese Maple bonsai is hardy to USDA zones 5-8.
Slow growing: Koto maru Japanese Maple is a slow-growing tree, which makes it well-suited for bonsai cultivation, as it allows the grower to take their time shaping and training the tree to their desired form.

24. Kuro hime Japanese Maple bonsai

Kuro hime Japanese Maple is a slow-growing, small-sized deciduous tree. It is prized for its small size, attractive foliage, and delicate growth habit.

Size and shape: Kuro hime grows up to 4-6 feet in height and 2-4 feet in width. Its compact and rounded shape makes it an ideal choice for bonsai enthusiasts.
Foliage: The leaves of Kuro hime are small, measuring about 1-2 inches long, and are deeply lobed with a lacy texture. They emerge bright green in the spring and turn reddish-purple in the fall.
Bark: The bark of Kuro hime is smooth and grayish-brown, providing an attractive contrast to the vibrant foliage.
Growth habit: Kuro hime has a slow growth rate, making it a perfect choice for bonsai cultivation. It also has a dense growth habit with small, delicate branches.
Hardiness: Kuro hime is hardy in USDA zones 5-8, making it suitable for a wide range of climates.

25. Osakazuki Japanese Maple bonsai

Osakazuki Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum ‘Osakazuki’) is a deciduous tree that is commonly grown as a bonsai.

Foliage: The leaves of Osakazuki are a deep green color during the growing season, but turn bright red in the fall.
Size: Osakazuki bonsai typically grow up to 10 feet tall, with a spread of 6 to 10 feet.
Bark: The bark of Osakazuki is smooth and gray, and develops interesting textures and patterns as the tree ages.
Growth habit: Osakazuki has an upright growth habit, with a dense canopy that can be shaped and pruned into various forms.
Hardy: This bonsai is quite hardy and can tolerate both sun and partial shade, although it prefers some shade during the hottest part of the day. Osakazuki Maple is hardy in USDA zones 5-8.
Low maintenance: Osakazuki bonsai are relatively low maintenance and easy to care for, making them a popular choice for beginners.
Soil and water requirements: They prefer well-draining soil that is kept moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can cause root rot, so it’s important to water carefully and monitor soil moisture levels.

26. Pixie Japanese Maple bonsai

Pixie Japanese Maple is a dwarf cultivar of Acer palmatum and is commonly grown as a bonsai. It is a beautiful and versatile bonsai.

Size: It is a small tree that can grow up to 3-4 feet tall and 4-5 feet wide.
Foliage: The leaves are small, 1-2 inches wide, and 3-5 lobed. The color is bright green in spring and summer, turning to shades of yellow, orange, and red in autumn.
Bark: The bark is smooth and grayish-brown in color, adding to the tree’s overall aesthetic appeal.
Growth habit: The tree has a naturally cascading growth habit, making it an excellent candidate for bonsai cultivation.
Hardiness: Pixie Japanese Maple is hardy in USDA zones 5-8, making it suitable for a wide range of climates.
Sun and soil requirements: The tree prefers partial shade and well-drained soil that is kept consistently moist.

27. Purple Ghost Japanese Maple bonsai

Purple Ghost Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum ‘Purple Ghost’) is a small deciduous tree that is often grown as a bonsai due to its delicate appearance and interesting foliage. Its striking combination of color and delicate foliage makes it a beautiful and unique bonsai tree.

Foliage: The leaves are deeply cut and have a purple-red color that fades to green as they mature. The delicate appearance of the foliage gives the tree a unique and elegant look.
Size: The Purple Ghost Japanese Maple grows to be a small tree, typically reaching a height of only 6 to 8 feet when mature. As a bonsai, it can be trained to stay even smaller.
Bark: The bark of this tree is smooth and has a light gray color that provides a nice contrast to the colorful foliage.
Fall color: In the autumn, the leaves turn to shades of orange and red, making the tree a stunning sight in any landscape.
Growth habit: The Purple Ghost Japanese Maple has an upright growth habit with a slightly cascading form, making it ideal for bonsai training.
Hardy: This tree is hardy and can be grown in a wide range of climates, making it a popular choice for bonsai enthusiasts around the world. Purple Ghost Japanese Maple is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.

28. Ryusen Japanese Maple bonsai

Ryusen Japanese Maple, also known as “Twisted Dragon” Maple or Weeping Japanese maple, is a cultivar of Acer palmatum that is commonly grown as a bonsai. It is a striking and unique bonsai cultivar that is prized for its cascading habit and vibrant fall color.

Growth habit: Ryusen Japanese Maple has a cascading, weeping growth habit that makes it well-suited for training as a bonsai.
Foliage: The leaves of Ryusen are palmate with five to seven deeply-lobed, narrow, pointed leaves that emerge in a bright green color in the spring, gradually turning yellow, orange, and red in the fall.
Bark: The bark of the Ryusen is smooth and gray with a prominent striation pattern.
Size: Ryusen can grow up to 10-12 feet in height, but can be trained and pruned to a smaller size suitable for bonsai.
Hardiness: Ryusen is hardy to USDA zones 5-9, making it suitable for growing in a wide range of climates.
Sun exposure: Ryusen prefers partial to full sun exposure, but can also tolerate some shade.
Soil: Ryusen Japanese Maple prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic.

29. Shaina Japanese Maple bonsai

Shaina Japanese Maple is a popular dwarf cultivar with a compact and upright growth habit, making it an ideal choice for small gardens or container planting.

Size: The Shaina Japanese Maple bonsai typically grows up to 3 to 6 feet tall and wide, with a slow growth rate. It can be easily maintained as a bonsai with regular pruning and shaping.
Foliage: The leaves of the Shaina Japanese Maple bonsai are small, deep-red in color, and are deeply lobed with serrated edges. They turn a brilliant red in the fall, adding to its ornamental appeal.
Bark: The bark of the Shaina Japanese Maple bonsai is smooth and gray, adding to its aesthetic value.
Habit: The Shaina Japanese Maple bonsai has an upright and compact habit, making it an ideal choice for small spaces or as a centerpiece in a bonsai collection.
Hardiness: The Shaina Japanese Maple bonsai is hardy in zones 5 to 8 and prefers partial shade to full sun. It can tolerate a variety of soil types but prefers well-draining soil. Regular watering and fertilizing will help to maintain the health and vigor of the bonsai.

What Colors do Japanese maple bonsai come in?

Japanese maple bonsai come in a variety of colors, ranging from green to red, purple, orange, and even variegated combinations of these colors. Some of the most popular color variations include:

Red: This is a common color for Japanese maple bonsai, with shades ranging from deep burgundy to bright crimson.
Green: Some Japanese maple bonsai have green leaves, which may be solid or variegated with other colors.
Purple: These Japanese maple bonsai have leaves that range in color from dark purple to lighter shades of lavender.
Orange: Some Japanese maple bonsai have leaves that turn orange or yellow in the fall, adding a pop of warm color to your garden.
Variegated: Many Japanese maple bonsai have variegated leaves with multiple colors, including combinations of green, red, orange, and purple.

The exact colors of a Japanese maple bonsai depend on the specific cultivar and the conditions in which it is grown, including soil type, sun exposure, and temperature.