Acers suffer a bit with wind burn as well. But, in dappled shade, protected from desiccating winds and well watered in free draining soil rich in a woodland mix, they have a fantastic range of colours:thumbsup:
If you can't find a dwarf variety suitable, buy an ordinary flowering one....loads to choose from. Plant it in a large pot, 25l or more, sink the pot in the ground. the restricted room will keep it within bounds. failing that, pollard it every few years to keep the thing in check. Here's a...