About
Carpinus caroliniana 'Sentinel Dries' is a medium-sized deciduous tree characterized by its blue-grey bark and a thick, oval crown that can reach heights of about 6-8 meters (20-27 feet). The leaves initially appear reddish, transitioning to green as summer approaches, and then shift to a vibrant orange-red in the fall. In April, the tree produces separate male and female catkins. Following fertilization, the female flowers develop into clusters resembling hops from late summer into autumn, releasing winged seeds that are dispersed by the wind when they mature.
About the genus
Carpinus comprises deciduous shrubs and trees known for their appealing leaves and clusters of hop-like fruits that appear in late summer and autumn.
Growing conditions
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Poorly-drained, Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
- Plant type
- Trees
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 4-8 metres
- Spread
- 2.5-4 metres
- Time to full height
- 10-20 years
- Suggested uses
- Architectural, City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden
Care notes
- Cultivation
- Easy to grow in most soils after establishment including those which are wet, or poorly drained.
- Pruning
- Pruning group 1
- Propagation
- Propagate by Softwood cuttings in spring and early summer or grafting
- Pest resistance
- May be susceptible to caterpillars and aphids
- Disease resistance
- May be susceptible to powdery mildews, coral spot and sometimes honey fungus