Hornbeam Maple - Acer carpinifolium
Aceraceae -- Maple family
Native to China, the hornbeam maple is a small deciduous tree, growing to 20 feet or less.
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The leaf of the hornbeam maple is atypical for the maple family.
It can be distinguished from the hornbeams, as the leaves are opposite in the maple.


Hornbeam Maple

European Hornbeam

An excellent small ornamental tree for a small area or to add structure to a mixed perennial garden. Probably best suited as an addition to an established garden where filtered sun and wind protection already exist. Not commonly found in the nursery trade.

Trees provide cover: Birds and small animals need concealed places for nesting and hiding from predators. The presence of wildlife can make your backyard or woodlot a special place for your family and children. As urban sprawl displaces many birds and animals from their natural habitat, it becomes even more important for home and landowners to provide green space and mini-sanctuaries for birds and other wildlife.

Trees provide food: Having a wide variety of trees that provide seeds, nuts and fruit for wildlife to eat is one way to increase your success in attracting wildlife. although artificial bird feeders can supplement naturally occurring foods, they can attract unwanted pests such as pigeons, Canada geese, squirrels, and even rats. Trees also provide food by attracting insects and providing cover for their activities; mating, egg-laying. Insects form a huge portion of the warm-weather food supply for many species of songbirds. Trees that provide fall and winter foods are especially important in helping wildlife survive the winter, and to provide forage and cover for early-arriving spring migrants that may get caught in late-season bad weather. Whatever the food sources you provide may be, birds and wildlife also need dependable source of water; create a small pool or birdbath in a protected place.


Hornbeam Maple grows best in full sun, on moist, well-drained soil. This specimen is scarcely 10 feet tall: it is 46 years old.

 

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