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Hornbeam Maple

Acer carpinifoliumfam. Sapindaceae
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pressed specimen — hornbeam maple
Pl. 0200 — Acer carpinifolium
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I

Overview

The Hornbeam Maple (Acer carpinifolium), a deciduous shrub native to Japan, belongs to the Sapindaceae family. This tree, known for its ornamental and medicinal value, can grow up to 10 meters in height. It thrives in moist conditions, adapting well to various soil types including sandy, medium, and clay soils. The Hornbeam Maple is hardy in zones 4-7 and prefers light to partial shade. Its distinctive feature is the resemblance of its leaves to those of hornbeams, giving it its common name. The tree's sap is edible and has been used traditionally for its preservative properties. While the plant is not typically cultivated for medicinal purposes, its sap can be used as a natural sweetener. Despite its ornamental and practical uses, caution should be exercised when handling the plant, as some parts may be harmful if not properly identified.

Quick answers

What is Hornbeam Maple?

The Hornbeam Maple (Acer carpinifolium), a deciduous shrub native to Japan, belongs to the Sapindaceae family. This tree, known for its ornamental and medicinal value, can grow up to 10 meters in height. It thrives in moist conditions, adapting well to various soil types including sandy, medium, and clay soils.

Compare with:Acer argutum→Acer distylum→Chinese Horse Chestnut→all comparisons →
IV·b

Mixology suggestions

2 drafts
Editorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Stress Relief
stress
tincture
Traditionally used for calming the mind.
Digestive Ease
digestion
decoction
Historically used to soothe digestive issues.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
V

Cultivation

Hornbeam Maple (Acer carpinifolium) thrives in full to partial sun, requiring moist, well-drained soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 4-7, making it suitable for temperate regions. For cultivation, ensure the soil remains consistently moist, and provide ample water, especially during dry spells. This tree can grow up to 10 meters tall and is both edible and has documented medicinal uses. For propagation, consider sowing seeds or grafting.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
4-7
Mature size
10.0 m tall
For first-time growers

How to grow Hornbeam Maple for the first time

8steps

Start with planting a young Hornbeam Maple for a low-maintenance, beginner-friendly experience.

  1. 1

    What you'll need

    A young Hornbeam Maple sapling and well-draining soil.

  2. 2

    Best time to plant

    Plant in early spring or late autumn when the ground is not frozen.

  3. 3

    Soil and container prep

    Ensure the soil is light, medium, or heavy with good drainage. Amend if necessary.

  4. 4

    Sowing or transplanting

    Transplant young saplings into a prepared garden bed or large pot.

  5. 5

    First two weeks

    Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for signs of stress.

  6. 6

    Ongoing care

    Provide full sun to partial shade, and water when the top inch of soil feels dry.

  7. 7

    Harvest or pruning

    Prune in late winter before new growth starts to maintain shape and remove dead branches.

  8. 8

    Common mistakes

    Overwatering, planting in heavy clay soils without amending, neglecting winter protection in colder zones.

VI

Edible & utility

Edible parts:Sap
Edible uses: Sweetener
Other uses:Preservative
Contextrange · companions · related
VII

Distribution

1 native · 0 introduced
Distribution across1 continent· 1 native
Asia1 region
native (1)Japan
X

See also

8 related
XI

Explore further

Growing zone
Native to
XII

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