Carpinus japonica (Japanese Hornbeam)

The Japanese Hornbeam is a deciduous tree with a more or less rounded form. Its average texture blends into the landscape, but can be balanced by one or two finer or coarser trees or shrubs for an effective composition.

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.

The Japanese Hornbeam has emerald green deciduous foliage on a tree with a round habit of growth. The pointy leaves do not develop any appreciable fall colour. It produces small clusters of green hop-like fruit from early fall to late winter.

The Japanese 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 3 feet from the ground, and is suitable for planting under power lines. It grows at a slow rate, and under ideal conditions can be expected to live for 60 years or more.

This tree performs well in both full sun and full shade. It is quite adaptable, preferring to grow in average to wet conditions, and will even tolerate some standing water. It is not particular as to soil type or pH. It is somewhat tolerant of urban pollution. This species is not originally from North America.