ExploreTrees

American Hornbeam

Carpinus caroliniana

The American Hornbeam is a sturdy tree with a cool name! It has smooth bark and leaves that turn pretty colors in the fall.

Habitat: Wetlands and forests

Appearance

The American Hornbeam has striking, smooth, blue-gray bark that appears fluted or 'muscular'. Its ovate, sharply toothed leaves emerge reddish-purple, mature to deep green, and blaze bright yellow, orange, or red in autumn.

KingdomPlantaePhylumTracheophytaClassMagnoliopsidaOrderFagalesFamilyBetulaceaeGenusCarpinus
American Hornbeam
deciduous trait badgeshade_tolerant trait badgebroadleaf_tree trait badgefruit_bearing trait badge
American Hornbeam

Category

Trees

Rarity

Common

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Snaps

24

Interesting facts

Even its scientific name, 'Carpinus', hints at its strength, meaning 'horn-like wood'.

In fall, its leaves put on a spectacular show, turning vibrant shades of orange and red!

Its wood is so hard, people once used it for tool handles, mallets, and even ox yokes!

It’s also known as 'Blue Beech' because its bark resembles a Beech tree but has a bluer tint!

Special abilities

Ability

Super Strong Trunk

American Hornbeam has incredibly dense, tough wood that helps it stand strong against harsh weather.

Ability

Understory Survivor

This tree can grow well in shady forest understories, competing effectively for sunlight and nutrients.

Ability

Wildlife Snack Bar

American Hornbeam produces small nutlets enclosed in leafy bracts that provide food for birds and squirrels.

Measurements & details

Height
6-12 m
Canopy Spread
5-8 m
Edible
No
Trunk Diameter
15-40 cm
Lifespan
50-150 years
Fruit Type
Nutlet
Growth Rate
Slow
Leaf Type
Deciduous

Ecological connections

Traits

Also known as

Blue BeechIronwood

Collections

Safety

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Do not pick or eat anything you find. Some plants and mushrooms can be harmful.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to identify American Hornbeam?

The easiest way to identify American Hornbeam is to use the Snappit nature identifier app.

How tall is American Hornbeam?

6-12 m

How wide does American Hornbeam spread?

5-8 m

Is American Hornbeam edible?

No

How big is American Hornbeam?

15-40 cm

How long does American Hornbeam live?

50-150 years

Where is American Hornbeam usually found?

Wetlands and forests

What kind of fruit does American Hornbeam produce?

Nutlet

Snap Map

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