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Carpinus betulus

European Hornbeam

They have a pyramidal growth habit when young, maturing to oval. The green foliage turns yellow to orange, showcased against the smooth, steel-gray bark sporting distinctive fluting.

  • »  Pyramidal to oval-rounded, growth habit
  • »  Ovate, sharp-toothed, dark green leaves
  • »  Foliage turns an undistinguished yellow to orange in the fall
  • »  Attractive, yellow or green catkins appear in early spring
  • »  Smooth, gray bark has distinctive, muscle-like fluting
  • »  Bloom Time: April

15gal
$306.00
  • Category:Trees
  • Hardiness Zone:4
  • Height:16-18 m
  • Spread:9-12 m
  • Bloom Color: Yellow
Exposure
Full Sun
Partial Sun/Shade
Growth Rate
Medium
Attributes
Catkins
Deciduous
Fall Color
Flowering Time
Spring
Habit
Oval
Pyramidal
Foliage Color
Green
Orange
Yellow
Landscape uses
Hedge
Specimen
Planting instructions
Container Plants
Additional Information about Carpinus betulus

Betulus is the genus name for birch, in reference to the birch-like characteristics of this species. As the common name suggests, the extremely hard wood of this tree will take a horn-like polish, and was once used in Europe to make yokes for oxen (the beam between the oxen's horns).

Growing & Maintenance Tips for Carpinus betulus

This tree, if limbed-up, provides excellent, dense shade for lawns and parks, or can be pruned in late summer, into a hedge.