Species European Hornbeam
A tree with a brown trunk with multiple thin brown branches, filled with green-yellow leave.

European Hornbeam

Carpinus betulus

Also Known As - Common Hornbeam
The European Hornbeam (Carpinus betulus), often known as the Ironwood, is an amazing tree for many reasons. It is noted for its striking yellow-green foliage, often going through a range of shades from late summer through to autumn. It is hardy, drought tolerant and slow growing, making it ideal for smaller gardens. The wood of the Hornbeam is very hard and durable, and it has even been used for making furniture. Its spreading canopy creates a great amount of shade and provides habitats for wildlife. In short, the European Hornbeam is an ideal choice for adding both beauty and practicality to the garden.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Cutting

Hardiness Zone:

5

Flowers:

Yellow (male) and green (female) Flowers In Spring

Sun:

full sun,part shade

Soil:

Well-drained

Fruits:

green,brown Fruits In Autumn Ready In Fall

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

watering

The European Hornbeam requires moderate watering, about once or twice a week with about 1-2 inches of water. Although it can tolerate some dry spells, it does best with regular watering. In summer, water the European Hornbeam at least once a week, and during periods of extreme heat, it may need to be watered more. In winter, provide it with water only if the weather has been dry and the soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid over-watering as it may cause root rot or fungal disease issues. When watering, make sure to soak the soil deeply and avoid spraying the leaves.

sunlight

European Hornbeam (Carpinus betulus) is a plant species that needs bright, indirect sunlight. This species will do best when placed in a location that has a few hours of adequate sunlight a day. It does best in partially shaded areas, where it can get either dappled sunlight or morning/evening sunlight. Too much direct sunlight can be harmful to this species, so it’s important to provide a suitable location for it to thrive. When located in an ideal environment, it will require 4-6 hours of sunlight each day.

pruning

European Hornbeam (Carpinus betulus) should be pruned lightly in late winter or early spring. Pruning should generally be light and selective to remove diseased, broken and dead wood, as well as any crossing or rubbing branches. This will help to maintain a healthy structure while avoiding unnecessary shock and damage. Low lying shoots and any branches that have grown well away from the intended shape can also be pruned. Additionally, in spring, major shaping work can be undertaken, especially if the plant requires a formal shape or hedge. This species is also well-suited to pollarding in spring or summer, which helps to keep the trees smaller and produce a regular crop of foliage over a number of years.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Harvest Fruit

The harvesting season for Carpinus betulus typically begins in late summer, usually in August or September.

Starts Flowering

European Hornbeam typically starts flowering in April.

Harvest Fruit

The harvesting season for Carpinus betulus typically begins in late summer, usually in August or September.

Hardiness Map