Acer buergerianum

Acer buergerianum, the trident maple, is a deciduous tree native to China and Korea.

Characteristics
A medium sized tree usually 10-15 m tall, occasionally to 20 m, with a rounded to oval shape and a dense crown. The trunk is generally short, with grey bark that becomes flaky with age. The palmate leaves have three forward pointing lobes, dark green in summer and turning yellow, orange or red in autumn for a vivid display. The inconspicuous yellow-green flowers hang in small clusters in spring, before the leaves, and are followed by winged samaras that ripen in autumn.

Growing and care
Sun or partial shade and a moist, well drained soil; it tolerates a wide range of soils, preferring slightly acid ones, and is hardy to USDA zone 5. Maintenance is minimal: prune to shape and to remove damaged branches, and water regularly in dry spells during the first years.

Uses
An ornamental tree for gardens, parks and streets, valued for its neat habit and brilliant autumn colour; it is also a classic subject for bonsai.