Heartleaf hornbeam (Carpinus cordata)

Heartleaf hornbeam

Also known as: Bigleaf hornbeam

The slow-growing heartleaf hornbeam is a deciduous tree whose timber is often used to make furniture and agricultural tools. Found in the wild on moist slopes, it is now cultivated in gardens as a hedge or screen. Heartleaf hornbeam is noted for its rough bark and heart-shaped leaves, which is thought to give rise to its common name.

Scientific classification

Species

Heartleaf hornbeam (Carpinus cordata)

Beeches, walnuts, and allied trees

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Perennial

Lifespan

Tree

Plant Type

6 m to 9 m

Plant Height

3.5 m to 4.5 m

Spread

Spring

Growth Season

Slow

Growth Rate

Images of Heartleaf hornbeam

Distribution of Heartleaf hornbeam

Distribution Map

Heartleaf hornbeam is a plant primarily native to temperate regions of Eastern Asia. Its natural range includes the broadleaf forests of this expansive area, illustrating a modest presence within these environments. Additionally, heartleaf hornbeam has been introduced to various locales outside its original range, where it is now cultivated, showing adaptability to new regions without necessarily becoming invasive.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Quickly Identify Heartleaf hornbeam

Heart-shaped leaves, 2.5 to 5.5 inches long, hairy midribs, doubly serrated margins.

Distinctive male and female catkins, male 1-2 inches, female 3-5 inches long.

Cigar-shaped seedpod, 3-5 inches long, emerges from female catkins, contains oblong nutlet.

Brown to yellowish-brown smooth stems, slender, mature branches show smooth texture.

Gray to black-gray bark with scaly fissures, rugged texture changes with maturity, distinctive appearance.

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Care Guide for Heartleaf hornbeam

Every 2 weeks

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

5 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Heartleaf hornbeam prefers consistent moisture in well-drained soil, moderate humidity, and exhibits moderate drought tolerance post establishment. Water every two weeks. Typically grown outdoors, mulching is beneficial for moisture retention, especially during its active growing season.

Pruning: Pruning heartleaf hornbeam in early spring is essential for healthy growth. Start by removing dead or damaged branches, then thin crowded areas for improved air circulation and light. Make cuts above buds or lateral branches, and adapt pruning to the plant's natural form for optimal shape and health.

Propagation: Heartleaf hornbeam propagation is most effective via semi-hardwood cuttings with multiple nodes, treated with rooting hormone and planted in well-draining medium. Consistent moisture and a warm environment support root development. Gradually acclimatize young plants to outdoor conditions before permanent planting.

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