Hornbeam

Smooth, fluted gray bark and dense, finely textured foliage give European hornbeam a refined look in any setting. It takes shearing beautifully, which is why it has long been used for formal hedges, screens, and pleached allees. Young hedges often keep their dry leaves through winter, adding privacy and warm color. The tree is long-lived, adapts to many soils, and turns yellow in autumn. Patience pays with hornbeam seed, which often waits until its second spring to germinate.