Trident maple is a traditional subject for bonsai. It is native of Eastern China and Japan. If left to grow naturally, it reaches 30 to 45 feet tall. Thick and strong trunk with interesting brown peeling bark that changes with age and exfoliates, revealing grey, orange-brown colors. Branches are refined. It is a tree that gains a mature appearance rather quickly. Fast growth. Upright deciduous tree with rounded crown. It has beautiful tri-lobed leaves, dark-green above and blue-green underneath, turning beautiful shades of orange and red in Autumn. The flowers are bright yellow and showy in the Spring. Hardiness zones 5-8, (-10øC/15øF, -26øC/-15øF) in Winter. A standard potting soil is recommended. It should provide for excellent drainage. They prefer a moist, but not soggy soil. Keep the soil somewhat dryer during the Winter months to minimize frost damage to roots. The Trident Maple's roots have a high moisture content, and are susceptible to frost damage. Easy maintenance, once established, they have a tolerance to dry soil, pruning and air pollution. Requires semi-shade in Summer, full sun the rest of the year.