Acer monspessulanum - Common Bonsai,Hardwood - Montpellier Maple Page

Acer monspessulanum, or Montpellier Maple, is a unique species native to the Mediterranean ranging from Morocco and Portugal in the west to Turkey, Syria, Lebanon, and Israel in the east, stretching north to the Jura Mountains in France and the Eifel in Germany. A medium-sized deciduous tree or densely-branched shrub, it typically grows to a height of 18-30 ft, with a trunk diameter of up to 2.5 ft. The tree exhibits smooth, dark grey bark on young specimens, which evolves into a finely fissured texture as the tree ages. One of its distinguishing features includes small three-lobed leaves, which exhibit a glossy dark green texture and measure 3–6 cm long and 1-3 inches wide. Acer monspessulanum's leaves fall exceptionally late in autumn, typically in November, and it produces pendulous, yellow to white flowers in spring. Despite its distinct features, this species can be mistakenly identified as the Acer campestre (Field Maple) due to having clear sap in the leaves. Acer monspessulanum has especially gained popularity among bonsai enthusiasts for its shrubby habit, leaf reduction capabilities, and remarkable distinct appearance in contrast to other maples.