How to source material for a Japanese maple (Acer palmatum) bonsai
Acer palmatum is native to the provinces in the middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze River basin in China, and is also found in Shandong and Zhejiang. It is distributed in Japan as well. It is a common ornamental tree species in gardens, and also grows wild in mountainous areas. It prefers light, and a warm, humid climate; it is not very cold-tolerant, and thrives in humus-rich, fertile, moist acidic or neutral soil. For pot cultivation, avoid the western sun and direct sunlight.