European Hornbeam
Carpinus betulus · Deciduous Broadleaf Hardwood
Plant Family
Betulaceae
Tree Category
Ornamental and Shade Tree
Variety / Cultivar
Fastigiata (Upright European Hornbeam)
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 4 through 8.
About This Tree
A medium-sized tree with a dense, symmetrical crown. While the species is rounded, this cultivar is distinctive for its upright, vase-shaped or columnar form in youth, becoming more oval/teardrop shaped with age. It features very tight, fine-textured branching.
Leaf Characteristics
Simple, alternate leaves, 2 to 4 inches long. Ovate shape with a sharply double-serrated margin and prominent parallel veins (corrugated appearance). Dark green in summer, turning yellow to brownish in fall.
Bark Characteristics
Distinctively smooth, steel-grey bark that is 'muscular' or fluted in appearance, resembling tensed muscles. It typically does not become deeply furrowed even with age.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to Western Asia and Europe; widely adapted to temperate North America and the UK.
Growing Season
Leafs out in mid-spring with vibrant green foliage; flowers appear as catkins in late spring. Enters dormancy in late autumn after leaves turn yellow or orange-brown.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full sun to partial shade. Prefers moist, well-drained, fertile soil but is notably adaptable to various soil types including heavy clay.
Mature Size
Reaches 30-40 feet in height with a spread of 20-30 feet. Slow to moderate growth rate. Can live for over 100 years.
Special Characteristics
Highly resistant to most pests and diseases. Exceptional tolerance for heavy pruning and shearing, making it a favorite for tall hedges (pleaching). Very wind-firm and urban tolerant.
Wildlife & Ecology
Provides nesting sites for birds due to dense branching. Produced nutlets (winged seeds) are eaten by songbirds and small mammals. Acts as a larval host for several moth species.