Hornbeam hedging (Carpinus betulus)

Hornbeam Hedge Plant Description

Hornbeam hedging, a semi-evergreen species, retains its leaves throughout the winter months, with the foliage turning into rich autumnal shades. From late spring to autumn, it produces attractive green catkins that develop into fruits, which are appealing to wildlife. Although similar to Beech hedging, Hornbeam is distinguished by its serrated leaves and more pronounced veins.

Exceptionally resilient, Hornbeam can thrive in suboptimal growing conditions, tolerating shade, high winds, and clay or wet soils. It grows at a rate of 20-40 cm per year and can be easily maintained at heights ranging from 1 to 5 metres.

Hornbeam is effective as a single-species hedge or when combined with other native hedging plants. For smaller spaces or areas requiring additional privacy, Hornbeam is also available as a space-saving instant hedging screen.

Everything Plants offers Hornbeam hedging in a variety of root types, including cell-grown, pot-grown, bare-root, root-ball, and instant hedging options.

Pruning Advice

Hornbeam is relatively straightforward to maintain in a neat, formal shape; however, it is also frequently utilised in informal mixed native hedges due to its coppery leaves, which persist through the winter and offer cover for wildlife. To preserve its winter colour, it is advisable to trim the plant once annually in late summer.

Further Information

Our recommended planting densities for each size and root type are listed in the product grid. These should be used as a guide when considering the time you are willing to wait for your hedge to achieve its full appearance. As a general indication, bare root plants can be spaced at 3 to 7 per metre, while cell-grown plants can be spaced between 4 and 6 per metre. For higher densities, consider planting in a double staggered row or a zig-zag pattern.

Delivery & Returns

Free delivery is available on most orders (except Premium Products) providing they meet the minimum spend criteria for the size of box or pallet. Pallet deliveries and large box deliveries for tall plants are indicated by icons on the product table listings. Delivery costs and minimum order details for each packaging type are as follows:

* Standard Sized Boxes (Bare root up to 1.2m tall & pots up to 7.5L) | Free UK Mainland Delivery for orders over £100 | or £7.99 charge.

* Tall Sized Boxes (Bare roots 1.2m & over) | Free UK Mainland Delivery for orders over £100 | or £14.99 charge.

* Pallets (Root balls, large pots 10L+, trees etc | Free UK Mainland Delivery for orders over £350 | or £60 charge.

* Pleached Trees (Specialist Delivery) | Free UK Mainland Delivery for orders over £1500 | or £450 charge.