CARPINUS CAROLINIANA / AMERICAN HORNBEAM

CARPINUS CAROLINIANA / AMERICAN HORNBEAM

A Graceful Native Tree with Textured Bark and Seasonal Color

Carpinus caroliniana, commonly known as American Hornbeam, is a native deciduous tree valued for its smooth, fluted, gray bark, dense green foliage, and elegant, compact form. Thriving in full sun to partial shade with moist, well-drained soils, American Hornbeam adds year-round structure, fall color, and ecological benefits to woodlands, naturalized landscapes, and residential gardens. Its slow to moderate growth makes it suitable for both specimen plantings and understory plantings beneath larger trees.

Why Choose American Hornbeam?

Native & Wildlife Friendly: Provides food and shelter for birds and small mammals.
Ornamental Bark: Smooth, fluted gray bark adds winter interest.
Seasonal Foliage: Dark green leaves turn yellow to orange in fall.
Low Maintenance: Adaptable, long-lived, and tolerant of a variety of soils.

Key Features:

Foliage Color: Dark green leaves turning yellow to orange in fall.
Bark Color: Smooth, fluted gray bark.
Height and Spread: Typically grows 20–40 feet tall and 20–35 feet wide.
Hardiness: Hardy to USDA Zones 3–9.
Sunlight: Prefers full sun to partial shade.
Soil Requirements: Moist, well-drained soils; tolerates clay, loam, and sandy conditions.

Specifications:

Plant Size: 20–40 feet tall, 20–35 feet wide.
Growth Habit: Upright, rounded to oval tree with dense branching.
Hardiness: USDA Zones 3–9.
Flowering: Inconspicuous catkins in spring; primarily valued for foliage and bark.
Fall Interest: Bright yellow to orange leaves and textured bark.

Ideal Uses:

Woodland & Naturalized Landscapes: Perfect for forested areas, shaded yards, and understory plantings.
Specimen Plantings: Makes an elegant focal point in small to medium gardens.
Wildlife Gardens: Supports birds and small mammals.
Low-Maintenance Landscapes: Hardy, adaptable, and long-lived once established.

American Hornbeam is a graceful and ecologically valuable native tree. Its textured bark, seasonal foliage, and wildlife benefits make it a standout choice for woodlands, naturalized landscapes, and residential gardens.