Abstract: By means of pot culture, the effects of different fertilization levels on growth and photosynthetic characteristics of Acer ginnala were preliminarily explored in order to provide the basis for proper application of nitrogen and phosphorus fertilization for potted plants. The results showed that the plant height and ground diameter of potted plants all increased with nitrogen and phosphorus rates. The root/shoot ratio was decreased, indicating that the photosynthates were transferred to stems and leaves. The proper amount of nitrogen and phosphorus could improve photosynthesis and water use efficiency in potted plants.