SCIENTIFIC NAME: Carpinus caroliniana

COMMON NAME: Musclewood, American Hornbeam

GARDEN SIZE: 20-30 ft. tall, 20-30 ft. wide

GROWTH RATE: slow (up to 1 ft. per year)

USDA ZONE: 3-9

EXPOSURE: Part Sun to Full Shade

WATER & SOIL: Prefers slightly acidic sandy or clay loam with high organic matter, and regular moisture. Water deeply on a regular basis during its first planted year. Average water needs after that; will need additional water in times of drought.

HABIT (FORM): Upright, full to ground

FOLIAGE: Deciduous. Green leaves turn gold/yellow.

FLOWERS: Male and female catkins occur on the same tree, yielding nutlets in fall.

PLANT ORIGIN: Eastern United States, including Tennessee

WILDLIFE SUPPORT: Host plant for local butterflies and moths, and food source for pollinators, birds, and small mammals. Supplies shelter and nesting sites.

FERTILIZING: During the plant’s early years as it becomes established, fertilize in early spring or later in the fall (while the plant is dormant) with Plant-tone or a similar fertilizer.

PRUNING: Minimal pruning needed; can be shaped for hedge use if desired