Globose Korean Hornbeam
Carpinus betulus 'Globosa' · Deciduous broadleaf hardwood
Plant Family
Betulaceae
Tree Category
Ornamental / Accent Tree / Street Tree
Variety / Cultivar
Carpinus betulus 'Globosa' (Globe European Hornbeam)
Hardiness Zones
USDA Hardiness Zones 4 through 8
About This Tree
A formal, tightly rounded to globe-shaped deciduous tree, typically standard-trained on a straight single trunk. It features a very dense, compact canopy with an even, spherical outline, slow growth rate, and refined architectural presence.
Leaf Characteristics
Simple, alternate leaves with prominent parallel veins, sharply serrated margins, ovate to oblong-elliptic shape, medium to dark green in summer, turning yellow or yellowish-brown in fall.
Bark Characteristics
Smooth, gray, slightly fluted or muscular-looking bark that remains relatively smooth and tight even as the tree matures.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Europe and Western Asia (Cultivar developed in nursery cultivation)
Growing Season
Spring leaf out with pale green foliage, dark green summer canopy, yellow to golden autumn foliage, winter dormancy with dense branching structure.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full sun to partial shade; moderate water requirements during establishment, adaptable to average well-drained soils with good moisture retention once established.
Mature Size
Typically reaches 15 to 20 feet in height with a spread of 12 to 15 feet; slow to moderate growth rate, long lifespan.
Special Characteristics
Exceptional urban tolerance, handles heavy pruning and formal shaping exceptionally well, highly resistant to major pests and diseases, beautiful dense globe habit requiring minimal corrective pruning.
Wildlife & Ecology
Supports local songbirds and beneficial insects providing shelter and nesting sites within its dense canopy; seeds are consumed by small birds and mammals.