Blue Beech
Carpinus caroliniana
#10 container
Blue beech or musclewood, is a small, shade tolerant tree with smooth fluted bark and multi-colored foliage in the fall. Interesting fruit is enjoyed by birds and other wildlife. Not commonly seen in the home landscape, this underused native performs well in many settings. A great addition to a formal shade garden, yard space or forested area.
Mature height x width: 20-35’ x 15-30’
Light: Full sun, partial sun, shade
Moisture: Moist to wet
Soil: Sandy loam to silty loam
Tolerates… Acidic soil, alkaline soils, clay, periodic flooding.
Does not tolerate… Soil compaction, road salt, drought
Ash replacement? No
Buckthorn replacement? Yes
Shoreline buffer zone? Yes
Seasonal interest: Papery hop-like fruit in summer, interesting bark.
Resilience to climate change: High adaptability
Pollinator and wildlife value: High
Photo credits: John Ruter, University of Georgia, Bugwood.org; Chris Evans, University of Illinois, Bugwood.org.
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