Carpinus betulus – Hornbeam Hedging 125/150cm Bare Root

Hornbeam (Carpinus betulus) is one of the most reliable and versatile choices for creating hedging. Its dense, fine-textured foliage emerges fresh green in spring, deepens through summer, and turns golden-yellow to copper in autumn. Even after leaf fall, many of the dry, coppery leaves cling to the branches through winter, giving structure and screening when other deciduous hedges are bare.

This makes hornbeam particularly valued for privacy hedging, field boundaries, and formal garden settings. Tolerant of clipping, it forms a neat, easily managed hedge that responds well to regular trimming.

Unlike beech, hornbeam is highly adaptable to heavy soils and thrives even in clay or damp ground. It is hardy, wind-tolerant, and copes well in exposed sites, making it a superb choice for both town and countryside planting.

Why Choose Hornbeam Hedging?

• Year-Round Structure – Retains leaves into winter for screening.

• Soil Tolerance – Thrives on clay and heavier soils where beech may struggle.

• Hardy & Wind-Resistant – Stands up well in exposed sites.

• Versatile Use – Ideal for formal hedging or natural screening.

Planting & Care Guide

• Position: Full sun to partial shade.

• Soil: Any well-drained to heavy soils, including clay.

• Planting Distance: 3–4 plants per metre in a single row, or 5–7 per metre in a double staggered row for a dense screen.

• Watering: Keep moist during establishment; tolerant once settled.

• Pruning: Trim once or twice annually to maintain a dense, neat shape.