Hornbeam is a deciduous broadleaf native tree to the south of the UK. It is an elegantly shaped tree with serrate, ribbed leaves and characteristic grey, fluted bark. Its branching habit gives it an attractive silhouette in winter.
 
Description 
The Common Hornbeam is part of the Betulaceae family. It is a small to medium sized tree, reaching heights of 15-25 m, rarely 30 m and often has a fluted crooked trunk. It is a shade-loving tree, with a shallow widespread root system. It stands up well to cutting back and has a dense foliage. This is colourful in autumn as leaves turn yellow then russet brown. 

Planting Position 
Prefers shade and moderate soil fertility and moisture. Tolerant of heavy clay soils. 

Size 
Growth Rate: Medium 
Final Height: 25-30 m 
Final Spread: 4-8 m 

Foliage & Flowers 
The bark is smooth and greenish grey, even in old trees. The buds, unlike those of the beech, are 10mm long at the most and pressed close to the twig. The leaves are alternate, 4-9cm long, with prominent veins giving a distinctive corrugated texture and a serrated margin turning yellow in autumn. It is monoecious and the wind pollinated male and female catkins appear in early summer after the leaves. The fruit is a small 7-8mm long nut, partially surrounded by a 3-pointed leafy involucre 3-4cm long; it matures in the autumn. The seeds often do not germinate till the spring of the second year after sowing. The Hornbeam is a prolific seeder and is marked by vigorous natural regeneration. 

Plant Interest 
As Hornbeam grown as hedging keeps some of its leaves well into the winter, it is provides a long season of shelter and foraging opportunities for small birds and mammals. It also provides food for various species of caterpillars and birds. 

Landscape Use 
It is naturally found in Oak Woodland. It is often pollarded or coppiced. Can be used in flower borders or architectural gardens and in mixed hedging. 

Uses timber/logs/windbreak/etc 
Hornbeam is an extremely hard and strong wood, it was traditionally used for the making of Ox-yokes. Widely used now for furniture and flooring. Also makes good firewood and charcoal.