Hornbeam, American (Musclewood), Bare Root
Shade-Loving Tree with Wildlife & Structural Value
Hornbeam, American (Musclewood), Bare Root - Bare Root / 6-18" Seedling is backordered and will ship as soon as it is back in stock.
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Hornbeam, American (Musclewood), Bare Root
American Hornbeam (Carpinus caroliniana)
Also known as “Musclewood” for its smooth, sinewy bark, American Hornbeam is a graceful native understory tree that offers shade, fall color, and critical insect support. Its compact size and elegant branching make it ideal for woodland gardens, streambanks, or as a native replacement for exotic ornamentals.
Key Characteristics
- Exceptional wildlife and insect value – Larval host for over 60 moth species and many native bees, plus shelter and nesting habitat for birds.
- Elegant bark and structure – Named for its rippled blue-gray bark that resembles muscle tissue — striking year-round.
- Brilliant fall foliage – Leaves turn orange, red, and yellow, brightening shady corners in autumn.
- Thrives in shade and wet soils – Perfect for stream edges, low-lying areas, and woodland gardens.
- Native alternative to exotic ornamentals – Use in place of non-native maples or cherry trees for ecological integrity and beauty.
Product Details
- Native Range: Eastern U.S. and Canada
- Plant Life Cycle: Deciduous tree
- Sun Requirements: Part shade to full shade
- Soil Requirements: Medium to wet
- Mature Height: 20–30 ft
- Bloom Time: April–May
- Bloom Color: Green (inconspicuous)
- USDA Hardiness Zones: 3–9
Musclewood is a beautiful, quiet presence in any native garden — strong, subtle, and full of life.
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Sun RequirementsFull Sun, Part Sun/Shade
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Soil RequirementsMedium, Medium-Wet
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Bloom ColorGreen
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Bloom TimeApril, May
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USDA Hardiness ZonesZone 3, Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9+
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Native StatesMaine, Vermont, New Hampshire, New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Michigan, Wisconsin, Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, Arkansas, Louisiana, Texas
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