One of a Kind Korean Hornbeam (Carpinus coreana) Pre-bonsai in 6" Training Pot
A batch of one-of-a-kind Korean hornbeams, each wired when young to set their own distinct curves and character. Every tree carries its own movement, taper, and branch structure, giving you a unique starting point with plenty of personality baked in. Great material for growers who want expressive trunks and natural, winter-silhouette style right from the start.
Species Description
Korean Hornbeam is a slow-growing deciduous species prized in bonsai for its small, neatly serrated leaves, fine ramification, and beautifully textured bark that improves with age. It’s more compact and cold-hardy than the more common Japanese or European hornbeams, making it a great fit for growers in temperate zones looking for refined detail in smaller or medium-sized trees.
As a Bonsai:
Korean Hornbeam develops excellent twig structure, tight internodes, and natural taper with proper training. It tolerates defoliation well and responds reliably to pruning. The bark becomes fluted and patterned with age, and its dense branching and leaf size make it ideal for formal upright, informal upright, and broom styles.
📢 This is a cold-hardy species—it requires a winter dormancy and should be kept outside year-round. In locations with extreme cold, we recommend placing it on the ground, mulching around the pot, and protecting it from wind.
Care Notes
Cold-hardy to Zone 5; requires winter dormancy and should be kept outdoors year-round
Prefers full sun to light shade, with some protection from intense summer heat beneficial in hotter climates
Moderate water needs, appreciating evenly moist but well-drained soil
Responds well to pruning, producing fine branching and excellent leaf reduction
Known for its small leaves, refined bark, and reliable yellow-orange fall color
Korean Hornbeam Pre-Bonsai - One of a Kind
As part of their training for future bonsai, our starters and stock trees are periodically pruned or trunk-chopped to encourage strong structure and desirable growth. If you’re purchasing for landscape use and prefer trees that have not been recently pruned or chopped, feel free to contact us before ordering to check the current status of the species you’re interested in!


