Overview
Carpinus betulus is a tree in the genus Carpinus, part of the Betulaceae family. It typically grows around 25.0 m tall. Carpinus betulus grows best in full sun and full shade, and tolerates most soils and 6.0-7.5 pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include hedging, screens, shade tree and street tree. It is native to Albania, Austria, Baltic States, Belarus, Belgium, Bulgaria, Central European Russia, Czechia-Slovakia, Denmark, France, Germany and Great Britain.
About
Carpinus betulus, the European or common hornbeam, is a species of tree in the birch family Betulaceae, native to Western Asia and central, eastern, and southern Europe, including southern England. It requires a warm climate for good growth, and occurs only at elevations up to 1,000 metres (3,300 ft).
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Carpinus betulus
About the genus
Hornbeams are hardwood trees in the plant genus Carpinus in the family Betulaceae. Its species occur across much of the temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere.
Wikipedia contributors, "Hornbeam", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Hornbeam
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Carpinus
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Full shade
- Soil type
- Sandy, Loamy, Clay
- Soil pH
- 6.0-7.5
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Exposure
- Full sun, Partial shade
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Carpinus betulus size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Tree
- Height
- 25.0 m
- Suggested uses
- Hedging, Screens, Shade tree, Street tree
- Native to
- Albania, Austria, Baltic States, Belarus, Belgium, Bulgaria, Central European Russia, Czechia-Slovakia, Denmark, France, Germany, Great Britain
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Carpinus betulus
- Cultivation
- Prefers moist, well-drained soil; tolerates urban pollution; benefits from regular watering during dry periods
- Pruning
- Best pruned in late winter or early spring before leaf emergence; can be shaped as hedge or topiary
- Propagation
- Seed, Hardwood cuttings, Grafting
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Carpinus betulus?
Prefers moist, well-drained soil; tolerates urban pollution; benefits from regular watering during dry periods.
Where is the best place to plant Carpinus betulus?
Carpinus betulus prefers full sun and full shade. It suits full sun and partial shade positions.
What soil does Carpinus betulus need?
Carpinus betulus is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay. It prefers 6.0-7.5 soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
How do I prune Carpinus betulus?
Best pruned in late winter or early spring before leaf emergence; can be shaped as hedge or topiary.
How big does Carpinus betulus grow?
Carpinus betulus reaches a height of 25.0 m.
Is Carpinus betulus hardy in the UK?
Carpinus betulus has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.
How do I propagate Carpinus betulus?
Seed, Hardwood cuttings, Grafting.
More in the Carpinus genus
Browse all Carpinus →
Last updated