Digging deeperPlant Library

European Hornbeam

(Photo courtesy of NetPS Plant Finder)

Other Names:  Common Hornbeam

Description:

A stately specimen of a tree with excellent form and few troubles; takes pruning very well and can make a fantastic hedge; choice cultivars are available in some very creative shapes and forms

Ornamental Features

European Hornbeam has forest green deciduous foliage on a tree with an oval habit of growth. The pointy leaves turn yellow in fall. The smooth gray bark adds an interesting dimension to the landscape.

Landscape Attributes

European Hornbeam is a deciduous tree with a shapely oval form. Its relatively fine texture sets it apart from other landscape plants with less refined foliage.

This is a relatively low maintenance tree, and can be pruned at anytime. It has no significant negative characteristics.

European Hornbeam is recommended for the following landscape applications;

• Accent
• Shade
• Mass Planting
• Hedges/Screening

Planting & Growing

European Hornbeam will grow to be about 50 feet tall at maturity, with a spread of 35 feet. It has a low canopy with a typical clearance of 4 feet from the ground, and should not be planted underneath power lines. It grows at a slow rate, and under ideal conditions can be expected to live to a ripe old age of 120 years or more; think of this as a heritage tree for future generations!

This tree does best in full sun to partial shade. It prefers to grow in average to moist conditions, and shouldn't be allowed to dry out. It is not particular as to soil type or pH. It is highly tolerant of urban pollution and will even thrive in inner city environments. This species is not originally from North America.