Acer — 30 species

Acer (maple) encompasses deciduous trees and shrubs celebrated for outstanding autumn colour, elegant leaf shape, and suitability as bonsai subjects. Trident Maple (A. buergerianum) and Japanese Maple cultivars such as Deshojo and Seigen thrive outdoors in full sun to partial afternoon shade, needing consistently moist but well-drained soil and generous water during summer growth flushes — never allow roots to dry out completely. Pet safety varies across the genus: several species including Amur Maple are confirmed non-toxic to cats and dogs by the ASPCA, but Red Maple is toxic to horses and some species remain unclassified, so verify each before planting near pets.