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Carpinus caroliniana, (American Hornbeam, Hornbeam, Blue Beech, Ironwood), Sheffield's Seed Co., Inc.

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Carpinus caroliniana (American Hornbeam Bonsai) Sheffield's Seed Co., Inc.

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Lynn Harper

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Reuven Martin

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Growing Info

Scarification: Soak in water, let stand in water for 24 hours

Stratification: cold stratify for 90 days

Germination: sow seed 1/8" deep, tamp the soil, mulch the seed bed

Other: fall sowing in mulched beds is prefered to artificial stratification

Native to: Canada, Eastern United States, Ontario, United States

Native

Introduced

Carpinus carolinianaCarpinus caroliniana

American Hornbeam, Blue Beech, Hornbeam, Ironwood, Muscle-beech, Musclewood, Smooth-barked Ironwood, Water Beech

In Stock: 14.879 lb (Total:14.879lb)

Carpinus caroliniana

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14.88 lb PA

Details

Germination:

77%

Germination test:

Cut (Full Seed)

Purity:

97%

Seeds per lb:

19,158

Quantity:

14.88 lb

Collected in:

Pennsylvania

Crop year:

2025

Min. hardiness zone:

Item ID:

1836762

Characteristics

Growing Info

Scarification: Soak in water, let stand in water for 24 hours

Stratification: cold stratify for 90 days

Germination: sow seed 1/8" deep, tamp the soil, mulch the seed bed

Other: fall sowing in mulched beds is prefered to artificial stratification

Native to: Canada, Eastern United States, Ontario, United States

Native

Introduced

Introduce a touch of nature's artistry into your landscape with Carpinus caroliniana, known as American hornbeam or Musclewood. Flourishing under the dappled light of Eastern North America's forests, this medium-sized, deciduous tree infuses natural beauty into any setting. Renowned for its sculpted, sinewy trunk resembling flexed muscles, this unique feature inspired the name "musclewood." The tree reaches heights and spreads of 20-35 feet, fitting effortlessly into small gardens or as a standout in larger landscapes. Its leaves, emerging with a reddish-purple hue, mature to deep green and transform into stunning yellows, oranges, and reds each fall, providing a seasonal tapestry of color. Inconspicuous spring catkins yield to distinctive clusters of winged nutlets, enticing birds and wildlife. Its adaptability to various soils and moderate drought tolerance make it a resilient choice for naturalizing in woodland gardens, along streams, or in rain gardens. Although challenging to transplant, its elegance is unmatched, offering year-round appeal with its fluted, blue-gray bark. Whether enhancing a native garden or accentuating park settings, American hornbeam is a robust, wildlife-friendly treasure of the Betulaceae family, promising low maintenance and enduring charm.