Carpinus betulus (Hornbeam) – Elegant Structure and Seasonal Beauty

Carpinus betulus, commonly known as Hornbeam, is a classic native deciduous tree valued for its pleated green foliage, elegant form, and outstanding versatility. Whether grown as a specimen tree, hedge, or pleached screen, Hornbeam offers year-round structure, tolerates heavy pruning, and thrives in a wide range of conditions—including clay soils and exposed sites.

Seasonal Beauty & Growth

Spring:

• Fresh, pale-green leaves emerge, distinctly pleated with a finely serrated edge.

• Young foliage gives the tree a soft, vibrant look, catching spring light beautifully.

• New growth quickly establishes a dense, leafy screen when used for hedging or pleaching.

Summer:

• Deep green foliage forms a lush, dense canopy or wall, offering strong summer screening.

• Subtle catkin-like flowers may appear, adding soft texture to the canopy.

• Provides shade, shelter, and elegant definition in structured gardens.

Autumn:

• Leaves turn golden yellow to warm brown, creating a glowing seasonal effect.

• In clipped forms, the dried leaves are often retained through winter, providing continued privacy and wind protection.

Winter:

• Bare branches reveal a beautifully ribbed, grey bark and structured framework.

• In hedged or pleached forms, the retained coppery foliage adds winter interest and screening.

Structure & Form

• Height & Spread: Can reach 12–15m tall as a tree; typically kept 2–5m in hedges or pleached forms.

• Form: Naturally upright and rounded; responds extremely well to clipping into formal shapes.

• Growth Habit: Moderate to fast-growing with a strong central leader and dense lateral branching.

Perfect for Various Landscapes

• Hedging & Screening: Exceptional for formal hedges, pleached panels, or multi-stemmed screens.

• Specimen Tree: Elegant and architectural as a standalone tree in lawns or avenues

Pros:

1. Cost-Effective: Bare root plants are generally cheaper than potted plants.
2. Variety: Greater selection of species available.
3. Establishment: Often establish quickly in the garden.

Cons:

1. Timing: Must be planted during the dormant season (late autumn to early spring).
2. Initial Care: Require careful handling and timely planting.

Preparation for Planting:

1. Soak Roots: Immerse the roots in water for a few hours before planting to rehydrate them.
2. Inspect: Trim any damaged roots with clean, sharp scissors.
3. Dig Hole: Ensure the hole is wide enough to spread roots out without bending them.
4. Consider Cutting back: Cutting back by up to 1/3, especially on taller plants will reduce possible losses and improve plant establishment.

Planting Process:

1. Plant Depth: Plant at the same depth they were grown in the nursery, indicated by the soil mark on the stem.
2. Fill Hole: Backfill with soil, ensuring no air pockets around the roots.
3. Water: Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil around the roots.

Possibility of Losses:

• Adjustment Period: Some plants may not survive the transition due to transplant shock or poor initial care.
• Mitigation: Proper planting techniques and aftercare, like regular watering and mulching, can reduce losses.

Aftercare Tips:

1. Watering: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged during the establishment period.
2. Mulching: Apply mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
3. Protection: Protect young plants from extreme weather and pests.

Bare root planting is a straightforward, economical way to enhance your garden, provided you follow these essential steps to ensure successful establishment.

Full Guide to planting bare root can be found here

Hornbeam Carpinus Betulus 100/110 cm 5 Litre Pot Grasslands Nursery

Does the height include the pot?

No, we measure from the top of the pot to the tip of the plant except for some of the instant planted screens, in this case it will be stated in the description

How long does delivery take?

Most orders are delivered in just a few days, Smaller items are often sent with Parcelforce on a next day service, Larger items should allow up to 10 days due to the size of the items they often have to be sent on our own transport.

Where will you leave my plants?

We will leave your order at the front of your property, Parcelforce may
leave your items in a safe place if you let us know, Pallet couriers
will require a flat hard surface to deliver to, no gravel or soil, a
driveway or parking spot would be best. Most importantly Deliveries by
pallet courier will require access for a large truck (bin lorry sized)
to get near the delivery point. Deliveries sent on our own transport may come in a small van or larger truck.