The Korean Hornbeam or Carpinus coreana is a deciduous tree native to Asia. The beautiful pleated foliage makes Korean hornbeam especially useful for group plantings as well as for shaping bonsai patterns. The growth rate of hornbeam species is variable, which is especially important if they are grown with a larger strain of bonsai intent. Carpinus coreana is very popular for its small leaves and intensely branched growth pattern, but it should not be forgotten that it is a slower hornbeam and usually takes twice as long as other species to reach the diameter of a similar thicker strain. This bonsai will be appreciated not only by beginners but also by bonsai masters of all grades and is the perfect complement to any outdoor garden.
The tree is characterized by tiny, light green toothed leaves that fall into spectacular colors in the fall. The fall color ranges from red and orange to yellowish bronze. Bark smooth, gray and wavy. Ripe hornbeam specimens produce white, hop-like flowers in the spring and seed pods that are attractive complements to fall and winter exhibitions.