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Common hornbeam
The Carpinus betulus, also known as the common hornbeam, is a deciduous plant native to Europe and extending into Iran. Admired for its versatility, the plant can be cultivated as a hedge, block hedge, or a solitary tree.
With its lush green foliage that turns a striking yellow in the fall, the European hornbeam is a favorite for creating structured landscapes and offering seasonal interest.
The Carpinus betulus boasts several key features that make it an outstanding choice for gardeners:
We would like to provide some tips on how to plant and care for a Shade hedge plants. By following these tips, you can be sure to enjoy your Shade hedge plants for a long time.
The hornbeam adapts well to various lighting conditions, from full sun to partial shade, and even to shaded areas, although its growth may be less vigorous in less light. It thrives in all soil types, provided they are well-drained. The species is robust, tolerating a range of climates as evidenced by its wide distribution from Europe to Iran, and it displays impressive winter hardiness down to USDA zone 5a. For optimal development, ensure the soil is fertile and retains moisture without becoming waterlogged.
When planting Carpinus betulus, it is important to choose a site that can range from full sun to shade, accommodating its adaptability. The species thrives in all well-drained soil types. As a bare-root plant, the best planting time is during the dormant season, from late autumn to early spring, avoiding periods when the ground is frozen. Create a planting hole wide and deep enough to comfortably fit the root system. Once planted, water thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots and remove air pockets. This initial care promotes a strong foundation, ensuring vigorous growth and the development of a robust hedge or solitary specimen.
Carpinus betulus is forgiving when it comes to pruning and often thrives without excessive intervention. To preserve the plant's dense and orderly appearance, especially when shaped as a hedge, it's advisable to prune twice annually. The first pruning should occur in late spring after the initial flush of growth, ensuring the hedge remains neat throughout the summer. A second, lighter trim in late summer will help maintain its shape into the winter. Pruning should be done conservatively, focusing on shaping rather than heavy cutting back, to support its natural growth habit and visual density.
Carpinus betulus thrives with consistent moisture, especially in the growing season. While it can cope with a range of soil types, ensuring well-drained conditions will prevent waterlogging, which is detrimental to its health. During periods of dry weather or drought, it is important to water the plants deeply. This is particularly crucial for young hedges to promote robust root growth. Mature specimens have better drought tolerance but will benefit from watering during extended dry spells to maintain foliage vibrancy and overall vigor. Watering should be done at the base of the plant to minimize leaf wetness and evaporation losses.
To ensure a robust and vibrant Carpinus betulus hedge, fertilizing is a pivotal part of its maintenance. It is recommended to fertilize in early spring, before the onset of the growing season, and again in mid-summer to support its swift growth rate. An all-purpose, slow-release fertilizer is ideal, as it provides a steady supply of nutrients. When applying fertilizer, distribute evenly around the base of the hedge, taking care to avoid direct contact with the trunk to prevent any potential damage. Water thoroughly after fertilizing to help the nutrients penetrate the soil and reach the roots. This practice not only encourages dense foliage but also fortifies the plant against harsh winter conditions, particularly in areas within USDA zone 5a where it displays considerable winter hardiness.
An often overlooked aspect of Carpinus betulus is its adaptability in creating structured landscapes. The species is particularly well-suited for crafting hornbeam hedges, which are prized for their dense foliage and classic appearance. These hedges provide not only privacy but also serve as windbreaks and sound barriers, all while maintaining year-round interest. With proper care and regular pruning, they can become a stunning feature of any garden design.
Carpinus betulus is adaptable to various soil types, but it thrives best in well-drained soil. Ensuring proper drainage will contribute to the healthy growth of this plant.
Carpinus betulus can thrive in a variety of light conditions, making it an adaptable plant for different locations. Whether it's in a shaded area, partial shade, or under direct sunlight, Carpinus betulus can grow and flourish. This versatility allows for flexibility in finding the ideal spot for this plant in a variety of garden settings.
The flowers of Carpinus betulus display a subtle green colour during their blooming period. This understated hue adds a unique charm to the overall appearance of the plant.
Carpinus betulus demonstrates strong winter hardiness, able to withstand temperatures as low as -26.1°C to -28.8°C. This puts it within the USDA zone 5a, indicating its resilience to cold weather conditions. As a result, Carpinus betulus is well-suited to thrive during the winter months in various climates.
Carpinus betulus is not an evergreen plant; it is classified as deciduous. This means that it sheds its leaves in the autumn and regrows them in the spring.
Carpinus betulus is known for its impressive growth rate, reaching between 40 and 60 centimeters per year. This indicates its robust and vigorous nature, making it a notable addition to any garden or landscape.
If we are proud of anything at Heijnen Plants, it is our plant packaging. We have developed our own unique way of packaging our 9x9 cm potted plants. After years of continued development and research, we managed to create packaging that allows plants to be delivered to your home undamaged and quickly through a parcel service. This makes us unique!
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If you have ordered large-sized plants or trees, we deliver them on sealed pallets and place them around your house or driveway. The pallets are sturdy and provide optimal protection for large-sized plants.
We deliver small or medium-sized plants in boxes. The size of the box depends on the size of the plant. We always make sure that the plant has enough space but still stands firmly in the box, so it cannot be damaged during transport.
Carpinus betulus, commonly known as the European Hornbeam, stands out for its elegant, serrated foliage and robust structure. This deciduous plant is a splendid choice for creating lush, formal hedging or adding stately charm to any landscape. Its year-round interest and adaptability make it a favored choice among discerning gardeners.
