Botanical Name
Carpinus caroliniana
Common Name
American Hornbeam
Wetland Status
FAC
Handsome deciduous 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. Of particular interest are the muscle-like ripples of the smooth gray trunk and the yellow leaf color in autumn. Well-suited for small spaces, American Hornbeam is tolerant of occasional flooding. Nutlets and buds are eaten by many birds and squirrels.