Japanese Hornbeam Maple

Distinctive for its unique, hornbeam-like foliage, Acer carpinifolium (the Japanese Hornbeam Maple) is a sophisticated choice for enthusiasts of Japanese flora. Unlike most maples with palmate leaves, this species features elegant, unlobed, and deeply veined leaves that closely mimic the Hornbeam tree (Carpinus), offering a fascinating botanical "disguise." In autumn, the foliage transitions from a fresh green to a bright, luminous gold and warm brown, providing a refined seasonal display. It is a slow-growing, small to medium tree that works beautifully as a specimen in smaller gardens or as part of a woodland collection.

Site: Sheltered
Soil: Moist but well-drained; acidic to neutral soil
Position: Full sun or partial shade. Prefers dappled light. 
Season of interest: Autumn, Summer
Hardiness: Fully hardy
Height: 20-30’ (6-9m) but usually smaller Spread: 15-20’ (4.5-6m)

Photo1 by Abrahami (talk | contribs) Photo 2 -by cropped Photo (c)2006 Derek Ramsey (Ram-Man) both cropped and shared under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 2.5 Generic license.