The Carpinus Betulus is a broad-leaved tree that belongs to the genus Betulaceae (Birch). This tree is indigenous to West, Middle, and South Europe and to West Asia. In the Netherlands the Beech grows in the southern (South Limburg) and eastern (Gelderland, North Brabant) parts of the country. Being a tree that thrives on clay soil, it is often used as a hedge tree in large parts of the Netherlands.

20 Years ago, this Carpinus Betulus (left) was dug up from the 3 metres high hedge row in a backyard (right) in the city of Leiderdorp (N52°09,761 – E04°32,411) by Mr. Teunis-Jan Klein. After years of care and dedication, this is its new shape. The tree has almost finished its training into a bonsai. It is now 115 cm high and 35 years old.