Acer is a genus of trees and shrubs commonly known as maples. The genus is placed in the family Sapindaceae. There are approximately 132 species, most of which are native to Asia, with a number also appearing in Europe, northern Africa, and North America.

Acer japonicum is commonly known as Full Moon Maple. It is a hardy, adaptable and easy to grow bonsai with brilliant autumn colours. For those new to the fascinating and addicting study of Japanese Maple, it would make sense that the Acer japonicums would be the main group of Japanese Maples, but they’re not. The Japonicums are a smaller group of mostly sturdier trees. They tend to have roundish and usually fairly large leaves. They are notable for the autumn colour which is generally a brilliant display of orange, gold, crimson, etc. all on the same tree if not the same leaf. Known as the Full Moon Maple, this outstanding species and its cultivars are prized by gardeners all over the world. Full Moon Maple has deeply lobed leaves, crimson autumn colour, and plenty of small, reddish flowers in spring. It can be grown as a small tree or multi-stemmed shrub. Its growth habit is mounded, bushy, and spreading. This beautiful tree makes a great specimen plant or bonsai and is very hardy.