Just like Japanese maple, dwarf conifers such as dwarf Alberta spruce (shown here) come in a range of shapes, sizes, and colors. They also grow slowly and won’t overpower Japanese maple.

Japanese maples can range from dwarf varieties that grow only 2 feet tall to larger trees that can reach up to 25 feet. The shape of the tree can also vary from upright and vase-like to cascading ...

A dwarf tree is going to be a lot easier to manage in a bonsai pot.” Other traits in Japanese maple’s favor: it’s more forgiving when it comes to pruning; the flexible branches are easily ...