Carpinus Betulus or European Hornbeam
Widely used in landscaping the European Hornbeam with its upright habit makes a good screening tree or tall hedge. Also grown as a medium to large sized tree it is Carpinus betulus ‘fastigiata’ that is most widely offered in Australia.
In Australia the upright form Carpinus betulus ‘Fastigiata’ is the most popular. Attractive glossy foliage with buttery yellow autumn colour this is a tree that takes well to pruning and in fact a popular form in the UK are the ‘Cloud Pruned’ specimens, unfortunately not common in Australia.
Best grown in a fertile humus rich soil, full sun to part shade the plant is not that fussy about soil types. These characteristics make it a versatile tree.
A weeping form is also available, C. betula ‘Pendula’, a very hardy mound forming tree that will work well in small to medium sized gardens.
Landscaping Uses
As a specimen tree, a hedging plant or screen or used to line a driveway, with dense foliage Carpinus Betulus has its uses. Full sun to part shade, a moist soil and a cool root run, so consider mulch. Will reach 10 – 12m in height with a spread of 5- 6 m, depending on conditions.
As a hedging plant Carpinus betulus is best at heights to 5m, space at 80cm to 100cm apart for hedging.
With a growth rate that is regarded as medium to fast, (up to 1m a year) and a dense bushy habit, use this as a hedge, a screening tree or perhaps pruned to shape as they do in the UK.
