Carpinus caroliniana

Handsome tree which slowly reaches a height and spread of 20 - 30 ft. Will grow with an attractive open habit in total shade, but dense in full sun. The muscle-like bark is smooth, gray, and fluted. Fall color is faintly orange to yellow and stands out in the landscape. Well-suited for small spaces, American Hornbeam is tolerant of occasional flooding. Nutlets and buds are eaten by many birds and squirrels.