Hornbeam Maple
Acer carpinifoliumfam. Sapindaceae
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Pl. 0200 — Acer carpinifolium
Acer carpinifoliumAcer carpinifoliumAcer carpinifoliumAcer carpinifoliumAcer carpinifoliumAcer carpinifoliumAcer carpinifoliumAcer carpinifoliumAcer carpinifoliumAcer carpinifoliumAcer carpinifoliumAcer carpinifoliumAcer carpinifoliumAcer carpinifolium
IOverview
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.
IV·bMixology suggestions
2 drafts
Mixology suggestions
2 draftsEditorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Stress Relief
stresstincture
Traditionally used for calming the mind.
Digestive Ease
digestiondecoction
Historically used to soothe digestive issues.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
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
What you'll need
A young Hornbeam Maple sapling and well-draining soil.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in early spring or late autumn when the ground is not frozen.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil is light, medium, or heavy with good drainage. Amend if necessary.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young saplings into a prepared garden bed or large pot.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for signs of stress.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun to partial shade, and water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter before new growth starts to maintain shape and remove dead branches.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy clay soils without amending, neglecting winter protection in colder zones.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Sap
Edible uses: Sweetener
Other uses:Preservative
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
1 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
1 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 1 native
Asia1 region
native (1)Japan
XSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Sapindaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Sapindaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
Native to
XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 02003262-a1fc-4e76-8163-c789d43545b6
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