Carpinus betulus – Hornbeam

Carpinus betulus, commonly known as ‘Hornbeam’, is a deciduous tree native to Europe and parts of Asia. It typically reaches a height of 10-20 meters, though it can grow taller under optimal conditions, sometimes attaining heights of up to 30 meters. The tree is characterized by its smooth, grey bark and its dense, oval crown. The leaves are alternate, simple, and serrated, measuring 5-10 cm in length. Hornbeam produces small, inconspicuous flowers in spring, followed by clusters of winged seeds known as samaras in late summer to early autumn. It is commonly found in mixed hardwood forests and is also widely used in hedging and ornamental landscaping due to its ability to be pruned into various shapes.