Overview

Carpinus betulus 'Horizontalis' is a bushy trees in the genus Carpinus, part of the Betulaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Carpinus betulus 'Horizontalis' grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include architectural, cottage and informal garden and wildlife gardens.

About

Carpinus betulus 'Horizontalis' is a bushy deciduous tree cultivar within the Carpinus genus, known for its attractive leaves and clusters of hop-like fruits in late summer and autumn. It thrives in fertile, well-drained soils including chalk, clay, loam, and sand, and tolerates a range of soil pH from acid to alkaline. Suitable for full sun or partial shade, it can be grown in various garden settings such as architectural, cottage, informal, and wildlife gardens. This hardy tree is adaptable to exposed or sheltered positions and is best appreciated for its seasonal interest in spring and summer.

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 4.0Hornbeam

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Carpinus

Sunlight
Full sun, Partial shade
Soil type
Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained, Well-drained
Aspect
East-facing, South-facing, North-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness
H7

Plant details

Carpinus betulus 'Horizontalis' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
Trees
Habit
Bushy
Foliage
Deciduous
Suggested uses
Architectural, Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Carpinus betulus 'Horizontalis'

Propagation
Seed, Softwood cuttings, Grafting
Pest resistance
Caterpillars, Aphids
Disease resistance
Powdery mildews, Coral spot, Honey fungus

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Carpinus betulus 'Horizontalis'?

Carpinus betulus 'Horizontalis' prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.

What soil does Carpinus betulus 'Horizontalis' need?

Carpinus betulus 'Horizontalis' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained to well-drained.

Is Carpinus betulus 'Horizontalis' hardy in the UK?

Carpinus betulus 'Horizontalis' 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 'Horizontalis'?

Seed, Softwood cuttings, Grafting.

More in the Carpinus genus

Browse all Carpinus