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Common Hornbeam

©Anne Tanne

Common hornbeam

Mainly found in Southern and Eastern England, the Common hornbeam is a tall tree of ancient woodlands. Its large catkins appear in spring, and its winged seeds are dispersed by the wind in autumn.

Scientific name

Carpinus betulus

When to see

January to December

Species information

Category

Statistics

Height: up to 30m
Common.

About

The Common hornbeam is an abundant tree in Southern and Eastern England, but is not as familiar as other woodland species, perhaps due to its general confinement to ancient woodlands. Its large catkins appear in late spring, and its large, winged seeds can be spotted in autumn as they are dispersed by the wind. The wood of the Common hornbeam is notoriously hard and difficult to work with, hence its other name of 'Hardbeam'.

How to identify

The Common hornbeam has a smooth, grey, 'twisting' trunk, toothed-edged leaves, and three-lobed seeds. It could be mistaken for Common beech, but its leaves are more toothed and veiny.

Distribution

Grows wild in Southern and Eastern England; widely planted elsewhere.

Did you know?

During the winter, the seeds of Common hornbeam are a favourite food of the elusive Hawfinch - the UK's largest finch, which is declining at an alarming rate.