Instant Hedge Carpinus betulus (Hornbeam) in Trough

Carpinus betulus is a sturdy deciduous hedge which has green leaves that look similar to those of Green Beech (Fagus sylvatica) but that are a bit more serrated on the edge and a duller green.

Similar to Beech, Carpinus betulus can hold onto its leaves throughout the winter and into the spring giving a better screening effect.  However, leaf retention is dependant on the amount of exposure, for example, some leaves may be lost in high winds. 

The leaves turn a lovely yellow in the Autumn. Carpinus betulus trough hedging is tolerant of a wide range of soil types and growing conditions making them a true general-purpose hedge that reliably performs year after year.  

Being a British native the Hornbeam (Carpinus betulus) will make a great wildlife hedge, offering both shelter and food, it is also a good privacy hedge as well as providing a decent amount of soundproofing.  

Frequent pruning will result in a very smooth finish which will give a formal to any outdoor space, whilst also acting as a great back drop to any flowering plants that are postitioned in frout of it.  Due to it versatility, it is planted by a lot of nurseries for shelter across thier sites. The Royal Horticultural Society gave Hornbeam an Award of Garden Merit in 1984.