Home Prairie and Wetland Center
16245 S US Hwy 71
Belton, MO 64012
Tel: (816) 331-9738
Fax: (816) 331-9739

Carpinus caroliniana

American Hornbeam

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Carpinus caroliniana (American Hornbeam)

A very handsome small to medium tree with multiple stems that forms wide, horizontal canopy. Dark green leaves can be yellow, orange, red or purple in fall. Beautiful thin, blue-gray bark. The seed is eaten by songbirds, quail and turkey. Whitetail deer will browse the twigs and foliage. Known as one of the strongest and densest woods of our forests, the wood is used in golf clubs and various handles.

Additional Information:


Height
20-40 Feet

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Spread
20-50 Feet

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USDA Hardiness Zone 3b-9

Home Owner Growing and Maintenance Tips:

Good Companions
Red Maple (Acer rubrum), Vernal Witchhazel (Hamamelis vernalis), Flowering Dogwood (Cornus florida), Swamp White Oak (Quercus bicolor), White Ash (Fraxinus americana), Columbine (Aquilegia canadensis)

Characteristics & Attributes

Hydrologic Designation

FAC

Season of Interest

Mid (May-June)
Late (July-frost)
Winter (Nov-Mar)

Soil Moisture

Moderate
High

Special Features

Interesting Bark

Sun Exposure

Full Sun
Shade
Medium Sun/Average Shade

USFS MO Ecological Map

Wildlife Benefit

Cover
Nesting