European Hornbeam

Also known as Common Hornbeam, Yoke Elm, Ironwood

European hornbeams are renowned for their remarkably dense, heavy timber and distinctive smooth grey bark that forms muscle-like fluted ridges with age. In spring, male and female catkins emerge alongside pleated green leaves, which turn rich shades of yellow and orange in autumn before holding late into winter. The wind-pollinated female flowers mature into drooping clusters of small nutlets, each cradled by a prominent three-lobed leafy bract that aids wind dispersal.