Common hornbeam (
carpinus betulus
), hornbeam and hornbeam are the three common names for this plant with a rounded and slender shape native to Europe and Asia, belonging to the Betulaceae family.
Why, when and where to plant a hornbeam?
The usefulness of the hornbeam lies in its height and its annual opacity (except in winter), which allows you to stay in your garden away from prying eyes.
It can be planted throughout the year, but the most suitable periods are early spring and autumn, if possible before the frost period.
To promote its development and longevity, fresh and well-drained soil, sufficiently deep, is necessary.
Furthermore, the common charm adapts to any type of exposure: sunny, partial shade or shaded.
Since its roots tend to take up space, it is recommended to leave enough space and not plant it too close to homes.
Make sure that the roots do not cross any underground pipes.
In addition, drafty, southern and coastal areas should be avoided.
How to water and maintain a hornbeam?
The first two years, regular watering is recommended so that this hedge can start its growth in the best conditions.
It does not fear negative temperatures: its green foliage, oval and serrated embossed due to its veins, turns out to be dense, both deciduous and marcescent.
This rustic hedge is not demanding.
It can happen that it lives more than a century, especially since it can resist diseases and other fungi, with the exception of coral disease and caterpillars.
In case of prolonged drought over several days, you can mulch at the roots to keep the soil slightly moist or water sporadically.
Also read: Hedge: how to properly recycle pruning waste?
Does hornbeam grow quickly?
Hornbeam grows rather slowly.
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Without regular maintenance, the height of the hornbeam can reach around twenty meters and its length around 7 meters.
But its growth is relatively slow, so you will have to be patient to obtain such a result and admire, when spring comes, flowering in catkin-shaped inflorescences which will be replaced by fruits grouped in clusters.
When and how to cut a charm?
For the common charm to grow again, annual pruning must be carried out during the summer.
Cut off damaged leaves and stems, ventilate at the heart of the shrub so that the sun can penetrate better.
You can also cut it to get the shape you want.