Carpinus caroliniana subsp. virginiana

The American hornbeam (Virginia subspecies) is a graceful, slow-growing native understory tree prized for its distinctive muscle-like fluted bark and attractive fall color. It thrives in moist, well-drained acidic soils and is well suited to shaded or partially shaded woodland gardens and riparian edges. Minimal pruning is needed; simply keep the root zone mulched and watered during establishment.