American hornbeam is a plant that is native to North America. It is a deciduous tree that can grow to be 30 to 50 feet tall. The american hornbeam has a unique appearance with its smooth, grey bark and its small, oval-shaped leaves. The american hornbeam is a popular plant to use in landscaping because it is easy to care for and it is tolerant to a variety of soil types.
Related plant:
Brunfelsia Americana
About soil condition, American hornbeam grows best on moist, well-drained sites, but it is quite tolerant of drier soils and occasional wet conditions. It does not do well in overly alkaline or wet soils. This species has a very dense and tight grain, making it difficult to split.
Not too different with other trees, American hornbeam need sun to grow. However, they can also tolerate shade, which makes them a good choice for planting under other trees. They need at least six hours of sunlight a day, but they can also grow in dappled sunlight or light shade.
The temperature condition that is most favorable for the growth of American hornbeam is between 68 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit. This tree does not tolerate cold well, and its growth will be stunted if the temperature drops below 68 degrees. If the temperature rises above 86 degrees, the tree will experience stress and may stop growing altogether.
Ideal humidity condition for this plant is 50% or below. The American hornbeam can tolerate a wide range of humidity conditions, from as low as 50% up to 100%. However, it prefers 50% or below, as anything above that can lead to problems with its leaves. If the humidity is too high, the leaves will start to drop off and the plant will become stressed.
Mentioning fertilizer, this plant doesn't require much. A light feeding in early spring with a balanced fertilizer is all that is necessary. American hornbeam is not picky about soil type, but it does prefer moist, well-drained soil. It is very tolerant of urban conditions and is even resistant to road salt. This tough little tree is also resistant to pests and diseases.
Pruning is an important part of keeping your American hornbeam healthy and vigorous. Prune in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. Remove any dead, diseased, or damaged wood. Cut back any suckers that are growing from the base of the plant. Thin out crowded branches to increase air circulation and light penetration.
Propagation is best done by seed, which should be sown as soon as it ripens in the fall. The seed should be planted in a moist, well-drained, sandy soil and kept moist until germination, which usually occurs in the spring. Seedlings should be transplanted to their permanent location when they are about 6 inches tall. American hornbeam can also be propagated by rooting hardwood cuttings taken from young trees in the fall.
Usually, the plant growth rate is around 1 foot per year, so this plant is not considered fast-growing. However, in the right conditions and with proper care, it is possible for the plant to grow up to 2 feet in a single year. The american hornbeam is a hardy plant that can withstand a wide range of climates and conditions, so it is a good choice for those who want a low-maintenance plant.
Common problems for this kind of plant are aphids, scale, and sooty mold. Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of plants. They can be green, black, or brown and are often found in clusters on the undersides of leaves. Scale are small, hard-bodied insects that suck the sap from plants. They are often found on the stems or leaves of plants. Sooty mold is a black fungus that grows on the honeydew produced by aphids and scale.
Source:
American Hornbeam - MSU Extension
American Hornbeam (Carpinus caroliniana) - Carleton College
American Hornbeam | Horticulture, Landscape, and ... - Nebraska
