Source: Wikimedia Commons
Japanese Hornbeam
AdvancedCarpinus japonica
A deciduous bonsai tree with fine branching and ovate leaves with sharply impressed veins. Easy to train into broom or informal upright styles, with golden autumn color and pendulous fruiting catkins that resemble Shinto paper streamers.
Overview
Carpinus japonica, commonly known as Japanese hornbeam or Kuma shide, is a deciduous hornbeam tree endemic to Japan, found in mountain forests of Honshu, Shikoku, and Kyushu. Its name 'shide' refers to the papery pendulous fruiting catkins that resemble the paper streamers used in Shinto ritual. The leaves are broadly ovate with strongly impressed parallel veins. In bonsai, it is prized for its elegant fine branching, smooth muscular bark, and attractive autumn color ranging from yellow to orange-brown. It is primarily cultivated as a literati or informal upright bonsai, and responds well to regular pruning and pinching.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Lifespan of the Japanese Hornbeam
The Japanese Hornbeam lives Centuries.
Size of the Japanese Hornbeam
The Japanese Hornbeam grows to 10-40cm (bonsai size).
Basic Info
Origin
Japan
Lifespan
Centuries
Size
10-40cm (bonsai size)
Temperature
-5〜35℃
Growing Tips
Placement
Cool partial shade. Sensitive to heat
Watering
Never let dry. Maintain consistent moisture
Styling
Broom style ideal. Build fine ramification
Notes
Summer can be hard in warm areas. Shade cloth and misting help
Japanese Hornbeam FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Japanese Hornbeam?
Advanced. A variety suitable for advanced growers. Requires advanced cultivation techniques and specialized equipment, with careful environmental adjustments needed.
QWhat is the lifespan of Japanese Hornbeam?
The average lifespan of Japanese Hornbeam is Centuries. With proper cultivation environment and nutrient management, you can keep it healthy for a long time.
QHow large does Japanese Hornbeam get?
The mature size of Japanese Hornbeam is 10-40cm (bonsai size). This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QWhat is the typical price for Japanese Hornbeam?
The price of Japanese Hornbeam varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: September 25, 2026
Growing Specifications
- USDA Zone
- 4–8
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: GrowerDirect Editorial Team
The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Accepted name: Carpinus japonica Blume
Synonyms: Carpinus carpinus (Siebold & Zucc.) Sarg., Distegocarpus carpinus Siebold & Zucc., Carpinus carpinoides Makino, Distegocarpus carpinoides Siebold & Zucc., Carpinus distegocarpus Koidz.
Authority databases: GBIF · POWO
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Regulations & Conservation Status
Sources: CITES Checklist of CITES Species
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
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