European Hornbeam

Latin Name: Carpinus betulus

Description: A medium-sized deciduous tree featuring dense, dark green foliage with ovate, serrated leaves that turn yellow to orange in the fall. A unique characteristic of this tree is its smooth, fluted, gray bark, which adds visual interest throughout the year.

Best Planting Spot: This tree thrives in full sun to partial shade and is adaptable to various soil types (with a pH of 5.5 to 7.0), provided they are well-drained. It’s suitable for use as a specimen tree, in group plantings for screens or windbreaks, and also can be pruned into formal hedges.

Mature Size: Typically grows 40 to 60 feet tall with a spread of 30 to 40 feet.

Planting Zone: Hardy in zones 5-7.