Description:

An exceptional compact ornamental tree with excellent form and few troubles; attractive twisted branches and glossy leaves; takes pruning very well and can make a fantastic hedge; choice cultivars are available in some very creative shapes and forms

Ornamental Features

Oriental Hornbeam has chartreuse catkins in early spring. It has forest green deciduous foliage. The glossy pointy leaves turn an outstanding gold in the fall. The smooth gray bark adds an interesting dimension to the landscape.

Landscape Attributes

Oriental Hornbeam is a deciduous tree with a distinctive and refined pyramidal form. Its relatively fine texture sets it apart from other landscape plants with less refined foliage.

This is a relatively low maintenance tree, and is best pruned in late winter once the threat of extreme cold has passed. It has no significant negative characteristics.

Oriental Hornbeam is recommended for the following landscape applications;

• Accent
• Shade
• Mass Planting
• Hedges/Screening
• Topiary

Planting & Growing

Oriental Hornbeam will grow to be about 25 feet tall at maturity, with a spread of 20 feet. It has a low canopy with a typical clearance of 4 feet from the ground, and should not be planted underneath power lines. It grows at a slow rate, and under ideal conditions can be expected to live to a ripe old age of 120 years or more; think of this as a heritage tree for future generations!

This tree should only be grown in full sunlight. It does best in average to evenly moist conditions, but will not tolerate standing water. It is not particular as to soil type or pH. It is highly tolerant of urban pollution and will even thrive in inner city environments. This species is not originally from North America.