Also known as the European Hornbeam or Carpinus betulus, this elegant deciduous tree is valued for its attractive foliage, tidy structure, and reliable performance in a variety of landscapes. The Hornbeam standard tree is an excellent choice for formal gardens, avenues, screening, or simply adding architectural beauty to your outdoor space.
At Tree Heritage Nursery, we supply Hornbeam standard trees in a range of sizes: 10–12 cm, 14–16 cm, and 18–20 cm.
Growing Conditions
Hornbeam thrives in moist, well-drained soils, including clay, chalk, sand, and loam, and is tolerant of both full sun and partial shade. It is hardy, wind-resistant, and copes well with urban pollution, making it a versatile and resilient choice for a wide range of settings.
Where to Position It
Hornbeam is ideal for formal avenues, hedging, topiary, or as a standalone feature tree. Its ability to hold on to golden-brown leaves through winter (when grown as a hedge) also makes it popular for creating seasonal interest and privacy. Suitable for both country gardens and urban environments.
Foliage, Flowers & Fruit
Hornbeam displays serrated, ovate green leaves that turn a rich yellow or copper in autumn. In spring, it produces catkin-like flowers - male catkins are long and slender, while female ones are shorter and green. These are followed by distinctive winged fruits (known as samaras), which add subtle interest and appeal to wildlife such as birds.
Size & Growth
-
Ultimate Height: Up to 25 metres
-
Ultimate Spread: Up to 15 metres
-
Time to Ultimate Height: 50+ years
Delivery — By Our Own Team
Standard and pleached trees are too tall for courier pallets, so our own team delivers them:
-
£55 — within 18.6 miles (30 km) of our Hertford nursery
-
£105 — 18.6–46.6 miles (30–75 km)
-
£250 — 46.6–205 miles (75–330 km)
-
£400 — 205–329 miles (330–530 km)
Oversized trees are delivered within a 4-week window and we’ll agree the date with you. Scotland or beyond 329 miles: please contact us for a quote before ordering. Select your distance band at checkout — we confirm by postcode before dispatch.
Plant Now or Reserve for Autumn
We deliver all year round — our container-grown stock can be planted in any season (summer planting just needs committed watering). Prefer to plant in autumn, when establishment is easiest? Order now and add a note at checkout — we’ll reserve your plants and deliver when you’re ready.
Planting & Aftercare
Every order includes our planting and establishment notes. The single biggest factor in success is water: new plants need generous, regular watering through their first two growing seasons. Follow the guide and your plants will establish strongly — and we’re on the end of the phone if you need us.
Why Tree Heritage
We’re a working nursery in Hertfordshire, not a reseller. Every plant is selected, grown on and quality-checked by our own team before it leaves the nursery.
