Maple styled to shohin bonsai size. Managed in smaller pots than regular maples, expressing condensed autumn scenery with delicate branches and small leaves. Ideal for display shelves.
Shohin-momiji refers to Acer palmatum (Japanese maple) cultivated at shohin bonsai scale, typically 15–30 cm in height. The species itself is unchanged from full-sized maple bonsai, but the challenge of maintaining correct proportion, health, and seasonal beauty in a small container elevates the craft to an advanced level. Spring brings reddish-pink emerging leaves, summer a full canopy of bright green, autumn an intense display of yellow, orange, and crimson, and winter the elegant bare branch structure — all within a composition small enough to hold in two hands. Shohin-momiji are perennial favorites in competitive bonsai exhibitions in Japan, where the standards of refinement are exceptionally high.
Origin
Japan (shohin-sized Acer palmatum bonsai)
Lifespan
50+ years (as bonsai)
Size
10-20cm (shohin size)
Temperature
-5〜35℃
Fertilizer (regular)
Semi-shade to full sun. Afternoon summer sun causes leaf scorch
Small pots dry quickly. Twice daily watering is standard
Defoliate for smaller leaves. Fine branch development is key
Sensitive to drying. Watch for branch dieback from humidity in rainy season
Advanced. This is an advanced-level species. It requires specialized equipment and advanced husbandry skills with precise environmental control.
The ideal temperature for Shohin Momiji (Small Maple) is -5〜35℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
The average lifespan of Shohin Momiji (Small Maple) is 50+ years (as bonsai). With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Shohin Momiji (Small Maple) typically reaches 10-20cm (shohin size) as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Shohin Momiji (Small Maple) feeds on: Fertilizer (regular). Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Shohin Momiji (Small Maple) varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Find listings for this species
Browse Bonsai ListingsShohin & Mame Bonsai Guide: Growing Miniature Bonsai Trees
Shohin and mame bonsai guide: watering frequency for small pots, soil mix, pruning for miniature sizes, and display shelf arrangement.
Shohin Bonsai Display Guide — Shelf & Formal Display Basics
Shohin bonsai display guide: basic rules, shelf and formal display composition, accent plants, stands, and seasonal expression.
Maple Bonsai Autumn Color Guide — Achieving Vibrant Red Foliage
Enhancing maple bonsai autumn colors: understanding leaf color change, summer care, light and temperature management, and defoliation technique.
Shohin Bonsai Guide — The Joy of Growing Miniature Bonsai
Introduction to shohin bonsai: size definitions, beginner-friendly species, care tips, display methods, and the joys of building a miniature bonsai collection.