American Hornbeam

Carpinus caroliniana

Size: 3 Gallon Availability

Tree
Max size: 30′ tall x 30′ wide

Very Moist, Occasional Moist, Moist to Dry
Clay, Loam, Sand
Part Shade, Full Shade

The American Hornbeam is moderately resistant to deer but sensitive to drought, heat, transplanting and compaction. It is best suited to be planted as an understory tree in moist soils where it can be left to mature.

The hardwood of this tree was once used to make bowls, tool handles, and more. Commercial use is not practical due to the small size of the tree and limited wood produced.

It is a larval host plant for the Eastern Tiger Swallowtail and Red-spotted Purple butterflies while the seeds and buds of this tree provide food for songbirds, ruffed grouse, quail, wild turkeys, foxes, and squirrels. Beavers and rabbits can be seen enjoying the inner bark of young specimens.