About

Acer carpinifolium is a bushy, spreading tree characterized by its upright branches. It features unique, elongated leaves that droop slightly, showcasing pronounced veins and serrated margins, similar to those of the hornbeam. The leaves are arranged oppositely, maintaining a tidy appearance, and they transition to shades of gold and brown as autumn arrives.

About the genus

Acer consists of deciduous trees or sizable shrubs featuring pairs of leaves that are frequently palmately lobed. These plants produce small flowers that give way to distinctive winged fruits. Numerous species display vibrant autumn foliage, while certain varieties also exhibit decorative stems.

Growing conditions

Sunlight
Full sun, Partial shade
Soil type
Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained
Aspect
East-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Exposed
UK hardiness
H6

Plant details

Plant type
Trees
Habit
Bushy
Foliage
Deciduous
Height
8-12 metres
Spread
wider than 8 metres
Time to full height
10-20 years
Suggested uses
Coastal
Native to
Japan

Care notes

Cultivation
Grow in a fertile, moist but well-drained soil in full sun or part shade
Pruning
Pruning group 1 but prune only from late autumn to midwinter. Can be hard pruned for a neater shade or for larger foliage
Propagation
Propagate by seed in mid to late autumn or spring. Take softwood cuttings in early summer
Pest resistance
May be susceptible to Acer gall mite, aphids, caterpillars and horse chestnut scale
Disease resistance
May be susceptible to Verticillium wilt, Acer leaf scorch and honey fungus