Common Hornbeam (Carpinus betulus)

Common Hornbeam is a reliable and highly versatile deciduous tree, widely used for hedging and boundary planting across Ireland. Valued for its dense growth habit and resilience, it forms a strong, attractive hedge that provides structure, shelter, and seasonal interest.

In spring and summer, Hornbeam produces fresh green, finely serrated leaves that create a thick, elegant screen. As autumn arrives, the foliage turns warm shades of yellow and brown, often remaining on the branches well into winter, helping maintain privacy and structure even after leaf fall.

Supplied as bare-root whips, Hornbeam establishes quickly and performs well in a wide range of soil types, including heavier ground. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and is well suited to both formal, neatly clipped hedges and more naturalistic planting schemes.

Hardy, long-lived, and easy to manage, Common Hornbeam is an excellent choice for gardens, boundaries, shelter belts, and larger landscape projects where durability and visual impact are key.

Why plant Common Hornbeam?

• Excellent for hedging and boundaries – naturally dense growth creates strong, long-lasting structure

• Seasonal interest – fresh green summer foliage with warm autumn colour that often holds through winter

• Ideal for bare-root planting – establishes easily and grows reliably in Irish conditions

• Highly adaptable – thrives in a wide range of soils, including heavier ground

• Low maintenance – responds well to trimming and is resistant to many common pests and diseases

• Flexible design option – suitable for formal hedges or more natural, relaxed planting styles