Carpinus caroliniana

Love my Carpinus. 3 specimens from seed. Unfortunately, being from seeds means there is variability in coloration. One is the archetypical example of what you want. It colors brilliantly, a kaleidoscope of reds, purples and yellows. I have actually had folks stop and ask what the tree was.

The second tree is ok, reds mostly, but it's ok. The third tree does not color at all. Leaves turn brown, period. Luckily, this one is planted near the bottom field where it still contributes. It provides shelter for birds, and isn't bothered by deer.

A larger species of Carpinus, C. betulus, called Lime Tree in Britian, grows faster and gets larger. (Lime Tree because it grows well on limey soils.) It responds very well to pruning and shearing. It also holds the leaves on until late in the winter, which means that unless you take your rake out in the snow, you won't have to rake the leaves. It could be hard to locate a C. betulus species. Most in the trade are 'Fastigata', which has its uses, but is very fastigate.

Thank you girdledinvasive and Dzitmoidonc for your suggestions. I appreciate it. I cannot seem to, however, find much details about Carpinus when it comes to U.S mid-west area. Is this tree more prevalent in the Europe?

Thanks again.

Carpinus betulus is native to Europe. Carpinus caroliniana is American.

Here is a link that might be useful: Indiana native

Dz, far as I know, "lime tree" is British speak for members of the genus Tilia, the lindens. I do agree with your other points though.

+oM

You are correct tom. Don't know why I thought Tilia when I was writing Carpinus.

Midwest, do a search for Blue Beech, one of its common names. some places will say "slow growing", but moderate growth would be more accurate.

Thank you girdledinvasive and Dzitmoidonc for your suggestions. I appreciate it. I cannot seem to, however, find much details about Carpinus when it comes to U.S mid-west area. Is this tree more prevalent in the Europe?

Thanks again.

It's common enough around here - Have you ever been to Turkey Run State Park? It grows along Sugar Creek, blending well with Eastern Hemlock and Basswood. Beautiful area!

Carpinus caroliniana is not a "glamor" tree, so many nurseries don't stock it. Blooms are insignificant, I don't think any have been bred for their sometimes gorgeous fall colors. They don't grow fast, and the world is into instant.

Tonight I heard a program talking about trees that fall onto houses, power lines, etc. They spoke to a tree expert from NH who specifically mentioned C.caroliniana as a desirable tree to plant. And I had to love her when she mentioned avoiding fast growing trees that provide instant gratification and fall when the wind blows. She was also decidedly cool to conifers, mentioning White Pine as brittle and prone to breakage. Another point was that any tree within 15 ft of a house was too close.

Drumroll..... Fagus sylvatica 'Rotundifolia'

Dax

I really like Allegheny Serviceberry (Amelanchier laevis). Good size, nice fall color, and edible berries - A good all-around small tree!

I did a little looking on the web and found 5-6' Fagus sylvatica 'Zlatia' at forestfarm. It too is a real nice beech with the same shape as 'Rotundifolia'.

I'll link ya.

Dax

Here is a link that might be useful: Fagus sylvatica Zlatia