Acer Carpinifolium Areum

Golden Hornbeam Maple

Acer carpinifolium ‘Aureum’ (Golden Hornbeam Maple) is a rare and distinctive ornamental maple prized for its unusual hornbeam-like leaves and bright golden foliage. Unlike most maples, the leaves are long, narrow, and finely serrated, closely resembling hornbeam (Carpinus), giving the tree a unique texture in the landscape.

New growth emerges clear golden-yellow in spring, maturing to yellow-green through summer, especially vivid in light shade. Fall color is typically soft yellow, extending seasonal interest. The tree develops an upright to rounded habit with fine branching and an elegant, understated form.

‘Aureum’ performs best in partial shade to protect leaf color and prevent scorch, and prefers moist, well-drained, slightly acidic soil. It is slower growing and best suited to protected garden settings. Hardy in USDA Zones 5–8.

Mature size:



Height: 20–30 ft



Width: 15–25 ft



Ideal for specimen planting, woodland gardens, Asian-inspired landscapes, and collector plantings, Acer carpinifolium ‘Aureum’ is valued for its unique foliage shape, luminous color, and refined character.

Plant type

Deciduous Tree

Height

32'

Width

20'

Hardiness zones

5–7

Growth rate

Moderate

Bloom time

Spring

Flower color

Green, White

Leaf color

Dark Green

Fall color

Yellow

Soil

Clay

Landscape use

Specimen

Shape

Broad Upright

Bark

Smooth

Drought tolerant

No