Carpinus betulus

Carpinus betulus, also known as the European or Common Hornbeam are shade loving trees that are native to europe and western asia.

Carpinus betulus - winner of the Award of Garden Merit in 2002, is closely related to the hop hornbeam, Ostrya carpinifolia.

Wonderful in a parkland setting, typically found growing in groups near oak trees and sometimes beech. Carpinus betulus are ideal for pleaching (hedge forming by inter-weaving branches between trees).

The common Hornbeam is a large tree with a characteristic grey fluted trunk with ovate, ribbed and serrated leaves (catkins appear in late spring) that turn a lovely clear yellow in autumn.

Carpinus betulus is a British native tree producing hard, finely grained timber with many uses. The timber of the Hornbeam has traditionally been used to produce mallets, skittles and even the moving parts of pianos.

It grows well on most soils, including clay and chalk. A most useful tree for poor planting conditions.

Why do some trees hold onto their dead leaves?

Mature height: 20m+