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 buergerianum, the Trident Maple, Three Pronged Maple or Chinese Maple is a vigorous species and is grown in many parts of the world as a ‘Street’ tree due to its tolerance of pruning, dry soil and air-pollution; these attributes also make it an excellent subject for bonsai treatment. Native to Korea, China and Japan, Trident Maples can reach heights of 10 metres or more when planted in open soil. The bark is buff and flakes to reveal a soft-orange underbark which gets darker as the tree matures. In South Africa, Trident Maples are difficult to locate. Not stocked in garden centres and tree nurseries, they are also unavailable to collect from the wild. Tridents nearly always have to be sourced from bonsai nurseries as imported stock or grown from seed. Maples are unrivalled for their autumn foliage colouring and variety of leaf shapes and textures. Maples are a very popular choice for the art of bonsai or pot culture and many are compact enough for the average garden. Their flowers are green, yellow, orange or red and though individually small, the effect of an entire tree in flower can be striking in several species. Bark is another feature of some maples, although usually smooth grey or greenish, in the group known as the snake bark maples it has longitudinal grey or red-brown stripes and in others it is flaky or papery. Most of the approximate 132 species come from East Asia, particularly China, where over 80 species can be found, Japan, with more than 20 species, and the eastern Himalayas. Most species are deciduous, but a few in southern Asia and the Mediterranean region are evergreen. Most maples prefer a cool, moist climate with ample rainfall in spring and summer. A planting position sheltered from strong winds suits them best. For best autumn colour, grow them in a neutral to acid soil. Propagation is generally from seed but grafting is also an option. Seed germination is aided by stratification.