Acer carpinifolium, commonly known as Hornbeam Maple, is a deciduous tree native to the cool temperate forests of Japan, often found along streams, on slopes, and in mountainous regions. It typically grows to a height of 10–15 meters with a spread slightly less than its height, creating a rounded canopy. The bark of the Hornbeam Maple is smooth and ranges from dark greenish-grey to grey-brown, providing visual interest throughout the year. Its flowers, which appear in spring as the new leaves unfurl, are small at 1 cm in diameter, greenish-yellow, and hang in pendulous racemes measuring 5–12 cm in length. The species is dioecious, meaning that individual trees are either male or female. The fruit is a distinctive samara, with each seed encased in a 2–3 cm long wing, aiding in wind dispersal.

The Hornbeam Maple is valued for its unique foliage that resembles that of a hornbeam, and its relatively small size makes it suitable for residential gardens and urban settings where space may be limited. It is also appreciated for its attractive bark and the subtle beauty of its flowers. This tree is adaptable to a range of soil types, provided they offer good drainage, and it can grow in full sun to part shade. While it is not drought-tolerant, it does require consistent moisture. Hornbeam Maple is not commonly afflicted by serious pests or diseases, making it a low-maintenance choice for gardeners. However, it is not widely available in the nursery trade, so it may be a unique addition to a collection.CC BY-SA 4.0