Hornbeam
Latin : Carpinus betulus
![](https://priestgate.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Carpinus_betulus_tree_shutterstock_138218648.jpg)
![](https://priestgate.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Carpinus_betulus_hedge_shutterstock_2165533995.jpg)
We include this image as Hornbeam is sometimes used to make a perfectly good hedge. From a distance it looks like a Beech hedge, but closer examination of the leaves will reveal its lack of shine and a serrated edge to its leaves.
![](https://priestgate.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Carpinus_betulus_winter_twig_shutterstock_1554763547.jpg)
The winter twig
![](https://priestgate.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Carpinus_betulus_catkins_shutterstock_2232047453.jpg)
Catkins emerge before the leaf buds break
![](https://priestgate.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Carpinus_betulus_leaf_shutterstock_471579236-940x705.jpg)
The new leaves, whilst similar in shape to the Beech don’t have the sheen of a Beech.
![](https://priestgate.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Carpinus_betulus_leaf_and_seed_shutterstock_1984483523-940x627.jpg)
Seeds hanging down.
![](https://priestgate.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Carpinus_betulus_Columnaris_shutterstock_2183055547-940x695.jpg)
The popular compact conical shape of Carpinus betulus ‘Pyramidalis’, also known as ‘Fastigiata’.
![](https://priestgate.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Carpinus_betulus_autumn_leaf_shutterstock_2180450699-940x522.jpg)
And finally, quite a passibly good autumn leaf colour.