Wild Wednesday – Hornbeam
The Hornbeam, scientific name, Carpinus betulus, is a deciduous tree can be found in woodlands within the southern British Isles. You will spot this tree alongside oak and or beech trees in forests.
It gets its name from the hardness of its wood, which is similar to horn, making it very durable and tough. The wood is extremely dense, strong, and hard, often used for making tools, furniture, and flooring. It has a light colour with a fine grain.
It can grow as a small tree or large shrub, typically reaching a height of about 20 to 30 meters (66 to 98 feet). It has smooth, grey bark that can resemble iron in texture.
This tree has serrated, ovate leaves that turn yellow in the fall. It produces hardly visible flowers that bloom in spring, followed by small, winged seeds.
Hornbeams are highly adaptable, thriving in a range of soil types and climates, and are especially tolerant of urban environments, and provides a habitat for various wildlife, including birds and insects.
Hornbeam is the best of all deciduous garden hedges as it grows fast yet only needs clipping once a year. It holds its leaves through winter, providing both a windbreak and complete privacy in your garden.
In folklore, the hornbeam is a symbol of strength due to its hard, sturdy wood. It was once believed that tonics made from hornbeam leaves could cure fatigue.
Read more here: Hornbeam (Carpinus betulus) - British Trees - Woodland Trust