Family: Sapindaceae
Author: Siebold & Zucc.
Bibliography: Abh. Math.-Phys. Cl. Königl. Bayer. Akad. Wiss. 4(2): 154 (1845)
Year: 1845
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Acer
Vegetable: False
Observations: C. & S. Japan
Description
Hornbeam maple, scientifically known as Acer carpinifolium, is a distinctive species of maple native to central and southern Japan. First described in an authoritative manner by botanists Siebold & Zucc. in 1845 through the work documented in Abhandlungen der Mathematisch-Physikalischen Classe der Königlich Bayerischen Akademie der Wissenschaften, this tree is an extraordinary addition to the diverse family of Sapindaceae.
Acer carpinifolium is unique among maples due to its foliage that closely resembles that of the hornbeam tree, hence its common name. It exhibits elongated, lance-shaped leaves with fine serrated edges, offering a textural contrast to the typically broader leaves associated with other maple species. The leaves, showcasing a vibrant green during the growing season, transition into striking shades of golden yellow in the autumn, enhancing the tree’s ornamental value.
Hornbeam maples grow to a moderate size, reaching heights of 10 to 15 meters, with a graceful branching habit that creates an elegant canopy. This tree thrives in well-drained soil with adequate moisture and benefits from partial to full sun exposure. Its adaptability to different soil types and resilience makes it an ideal selection for diverse landscape settings.
The Acer carpinifolium contributes significantly to the ecological tapestry of Japanese forests, accommodating various insect species and providing a food source for local wildlife. Furthermore, it holds cultural significance and is cherished in traditional Japanese gardens for its aesthetic appeal and subdued elegance.
Whether cultivated in botanical gardens or utilized in urban landscaping, the hornbeam maple continues to captivate tree enthusiasts and horticulturists alike with its distinctive foliage and seasonal beauty, standing as a testament to the enchanting flora of Japan.
Common Names
Deu: hainbuchen-ahorn
Swe: avenbokslönn
Eng: hornbeam maple
Fra: érable à feuilles de charme
Jpn: chidorinoki
En: Hornbeam maple, Hornbeam-leaved Maple
Fr: Érable à feuilles de charme
De: Hainbuchen-Ahorn, Hainbuchenblättriger Ahorn
Ja: Chidori-no-ki, Yamashiba-kaede, Chidorinoki
Sv: Avenbokslönn
Synonyms
- Acer carpinifolium f. magnificum (Sugim.)
Distribution
- Japan (native)
Additional Images
Leaf
Taken Nov 1, 2020 by Stephanie Diegel (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 13, 2022 by Sebastian (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 7, 2021 by Dan W (cc-by-sa)
Taken Sep 12, 2020 by Philippe de Spoelberch (cc-by-sa)
Taken Sep 28, 2008 by ka de es (cc-by-sa)
Flower
Taken Apr 24, 2021 by Philippe de Spoelberch (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 13, 2020 by philippe de spoelberch (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 15, 2018 by philippe de spoelberch (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 24, 2021 by Philippe de Spoelberch (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 18, 2021 by Philippe de Spoelberch (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken Sep 12, 2020 by Philippe de Spoelberch (cc-by-sa)
Fruit
Taken Sep 12, 2020 by Philippe de Spoelberch (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 21, 2020 by Heideroth Antje (cc-by-sa)
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3768602)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:781254-1)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Acer carpinifolium Siebold & Zucc.)