Hornbeam, American
Latin: Carpinus caroliniana
Other common names: hornbeam, blue beech, ironwood, water beech
Zones: 3-9
Mature Height: 40 ft.
Soil / Climate- likes moist, rich soils, full sun to shade, prune tolerant, slow growth rate. It has a shallow, wide spreading root system.
Fruit of the Hornbeam is a cluster of seeds hanging from a leafy branch.
Landscape Uses would be anything from a shade tree to hedge.
Wildlife: The Hornbeam seeds, twigs and buds are a valued food source for deer, turkeys, ducks and squirrels. The tree grows well beneath other larger trees and produces good shelter for a number of animals and serves as a host tree for birds’ nests.
Additional information on Carpinus caroliniana can be found on the link:
Purchase Size: 1-2 ft.
USDA NRCS Species Information