About

Carpinus betulus, the common hornbeam, is a large, deciduous tree developing a distinctive, fluted, grey trunk and a broad, rounded crown. Oval, prominently ribbed, mid-green leaves 5�8 cm long emerge fresh green in spring, turn yellow in autumn, and often persist on the tree through winter on young trees. Catkins open in spring; hop-like, winged fruiting catkins ripen in late summer. An excellent and versatile tree for woodland, hedging and topiary.

About the genus

Carpinus, the hornbeams, are deciduous trees and shrubs with attractive, prominently veined, oval leaves that often colour well in autumn and turn brown to persist on the tree through winter. Hop-like clusters of winged fruits ripen in late summer. Grown as specimen, woodland and hedging trees.

Growing conditions

SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, North-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH7

Plant details

Plant typeTrees
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
HeightHigher than 12 metres
Spreadwider than 8 metres
Time to full heightMore than 50 years
Suggested usesArchitectural, Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens
Native toEurope to Iran

Care notes

CultivationGrow in fertile, well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade
PruningPruning group 1
PropagationPropagate by seed, softwood cuttings or by grafting
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to caterpillars and aphids
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to powdery mildews, coral spot and sometimes honey fungus
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