A small to medium multi-stemmed tree forming wide spreading rounded tops. A subtle beauty often overlooked. Simple toothed leaves are dark green and have variable yellow, orange, red or reddish purple fall color. Beautiful thin, bluish-gray bark that appears to “ripple” as the tree matures. Hence another common name: “Musclewood.”
Native Plant Database
Header Photo: Mervin Wallace
American Hornbeam
Carpinus caroliniana
Plant Type: Trees
Native Environment: Forest, Stream Edge
Season of Interest: Mid (May - June), Late (July - frost), Winter (Nov - Mar)
Main Color: Green
Fall Color: Purple, Red, Yellow
USDA PLANTS Range Map
At the range map link above, zoom in for county-level data
Sun Exposure
Full Sun, Medium Sun/Average Shade, Shade
Soil
Moisture
Moderate, High
Nature Attracting
Wildlife Benefit
Cover, Nesting
Animal
Resistance
Size
Height:
20 to
40
feet
Spread:
20 to
50
feet
Size
Height: 20 to
40
feet
Spread: 20 to
50
feet
Size
Height: 20 to
40
feet
Spread: 20 to
50
feet
Typical Landscape Use
Can be used under taller trees as an understory tree. Would be great as a feature along a creekside.
Establishment and Care Instructions
Native to woods, often along rivers and streams. Can withstand periodic flooding. Can also be grown in full sun.
Special Features
Interesting Bark
Special Usage
Basic Description
Where Should I Start?
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Where Can I Find This Plant in Nature?
Learn about the Native Environment(s) inhabited by the plants in this database.