Acer rufinerve is a deciduous tree native to Japan in the maple family (Sapindaceae), one of the more widely planted snakebark maples in temperate gardens. The name refers to the reddish down found on the veins of the leaves, most visible on the undersides of young foliage. More visible, and more consistently ornamental, is the bark: green-grey with white striations in the characteristic snakebark pattern that becomes increasingly pronounced as the tree matures.

The autumn foliage turns yellow, orange, and red, performing reliably across zones 5 to 7. Moths visit the spring flowers. It prefers a sheltered position with adequate moisture, performing best at the edge of a woodland garden or in conditions that replicate the forest understory of its native Japan. As snakebark maples go, rufinerve is less variable than some relatives, producing a consistent quality of bark and form that makes it a dependable choice for the gardener new to the group.