American Hornbeam
Carpinus caroliniana ‘Wisconsin Red’
American Hornbeam is a wonderful understory tree with smooth, gray bark, and as it matures, its branches gain a sinewy, twisting appearance, giving rise to another common name, Musclewood. This graceful, small tree may be slow-growing, but it is shade tolerant, disease resistant, and strong as iron. ‘Wisconsin Red’ is a beautiful selection with striking fiery red, orange, and yellow fall color.
Conditions: Full sun to full shade; average soil
Size: 15 – 20′ tall, 10′ – 15′ wide
Zone: 3 – 9
Wildlife Value: Larval host to dozens butterfly and moth species, including the American Dagger Moth; nutlets provide food for various wildlife in autumn
