In 1890, as scientists explored China, Korea and Japan, they found an unusual maple tree, and it made its way to Europe and the United States. This tree is the trident, or the three-toothed, maple (Acer buergerianum). Along with Japanese maples, this tree has gained fame in bonsai and in horticulture practices. It is a medium-sized tree, up to 25 to 30 feet, yet in Asia it reaches a height of 90-100 feet.

The simple leaves are up to 3 inches wide and long with three lobes or teeth. They have finely-toothed edges and a pubescent underside. There are three main veins in the leaves, so this appearance is of a trident, duck’s foot or frog’s hand. These rich green leaves turn yellow or orange in the fall.

Many cultivars are shrubby and tend to grow in a “low-spreading habit” with multiple ste

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