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Hornbeam Flower Wikimedia Commons
Betulaceae

Hornbeam Flower

Carpinus betulus

Enduring strength and fortitude.

Family
Betulaceae
Genus
Carpinus
Native to
Europe, western Asia
Bloom season
Spring
Type
deciduous tree
Height
1000–2500 cm
Sunlight
full sun to part shade
Soil
clay, loam, well-drained
Water
moderate
Hardiness
4–8
Lifespan
perennial; 150–300 years

Did you know

  • Hornbeam wood is the hardest of any European tree — the name derives from 'horn' (hard) and 'beam' (tree).
  • Male catkins dangle while female catkins stand upright, both appearing before leaves fully expand.
  • The wood was historically prized for ox yokes, gear cogs, and butcher's chopping blocks.
  • Hornbeam hedges retain their copper-brown dead leaves through winter, providing year-round screening.
  • In Bach flower remedies, Hornbeam is used to treat the 'Monday morning feeling' of mental weariness.

Color meanings

Green

steadfast endurance

Uses

  • hedging
  • timber (tool handles)
  • ornamental tree
  • pleaching
  • bonsai