Carpinus betulus (Hornbeam)

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Skill rating Beginner
skill rating
Ultimate spread 20m
max. spread
Ultimate height 25m
max. height
Time to maturity 20-50 years
to maturity
Maintenance level 1 hour care
per year

Botanical name: Carpinus betulus

Other names: Hornbeam


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Genus: Carpinus

Species: C. betulus - C. betulus is a hardy and sturdy deciduous tree with an upright, triangular shape and mid-green leaves turning yellow and orange in autumn.

Carpinus betulus is: Deciduous

Flower: Light green in Spring

Foliage: Light green in Spring; Green in Summer; Yellow in Autumn

Fruit: Pale-brown in Autumn

Tree shape: Irregular, Spreading

Awards: RHS AGM (Award of Garden Merit)

Plant with: Galanthus nivalis (Common snowdrop), Galanthus 'Bertram Anderson' (Snowdrop 'Bertram Anderson')

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Watch out for

Specific pests: Aphids , Caterpillars

Specific diseases: Coral spot , Powdery mildew

General care

Propagation methods: Grafting, Softwood cuttings. REGISTER to read more...


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Carpinus betulus (Hornbeam) will reach a height of 25m and a spread of 20m after 20-50 years.


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Suggested uses: Architectural, Foliage only, Hedging/Screens, Low Maintenance

Cultivation: Plant in any soil. Prefers a sunny position. Ensure space to grow to full size.

Suitable for your garden?
In progress indicator
This plant likes... Garden match
Soil types: Chalky, Clay, Loamy, Sandy (will tolerate most soil types) Match unknown
Soil drainage: Moist but well-drained, Well-drained Match unknown
Soil pH: Acid, Alkaline, Neutral Match unknown
Light: Full Sun, Partial Shade Match unknown
Aspect: North, South, East, West Match unknown
Exposure: Exposed, Sheltered Match unknown
Hardiness: Hardy (H4) Match unknown

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Hornbeam (Carpinus betulus

General post from margaret

We have a clay soil garden, prone to waterlogging. We want to plant a row of pleached hornbeams to form a screen from our neighbours. We are told they tolerate clay, but how do they tolerate water, and can anyone suggest anything better suited that will provide instant cover ? Thanks

  • Views: 1182
  • Replies: 2
  • Posted: Wed. 24th February 2010 21:30
  • Last reply: Sun. 28th February 2010 13:02

Carpinus betulus

Comment from Miriam Mesa-Villalba

Grown as a tree, hornbeam is only suitable for large gardens. The rarely seen hawfinch is fond of its seeds, and the leaves are the food plant of many moths.

  • Views: 268
  • Replies: 0
  • Posted: Fri. 15th May 2009 08:38

 

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