How to identify a hornbeam tree

Tree Profiles > How to identify a hornbeam tree

How do you identify a hornbeam tree?

Wondering if you are looking at a hornbeam tree? Your clues are their leaves, buds, catkins and seeds. Here’s what they look like at-a-glance:

Hello! In today’s guide we are going to learn how to identify a hornbeam tree. Are you ready? Let’s get started! Here are a few hornbeam facts:

Hornbeam trees can grow up to 30 meters tall, live for over 300 years and can be found growing in woodlands and sometimes in old hedgerows.

Hornbeam leaves are oval, with pointed tips, deep furrows and doubly serrated.

Their buds are thin, brown, slightly curved and lie close against the twig.

Male catkins are loose and scaly with dark points on each scale. The female flowers are fluffy and light pink.

Hornbeam seeds are small, cupped and surrounded by three-lobed papery wings.

Hornbeam leaf

Beech leaf

Beech leaves look similar to hornbeam leaves, but are larger, smoother and have smooth, wavy edges.

Medicinal – Hornbeam has traditionally been used as a tonic and astringent
Bushcraft – Hornbeam wood burns well when making fire
Wildlife – Hornbeams area valuable food source and shelter for many birds, small mammals and insects.
Industry – The wood of this tree is extremely hard and durable for wheels, floors and furniture