Hornbeam, Lucas European
Lucas European Hornbeam
Carpinus betulus 'Lucas'
Height: Typically 15–20 feet tall in Michigan’s cooler climate
Spread: Approximately 12–15 feet wide
Spacing: Plant 12–15 feet apart for a balanced landscape design
Growth Rate: Slow
Description
Lucas European Hornbeam offers a stunning, refined presence to your landscape with its compact, stately form and beautifully textured foliage. This deciduous tree features a sculpted silhouette that is perfectly suited for Michigan’s cooler conditions. In full sun to partial shade, its leaves turn a brilliant golden-yellow in the fall, providing an inspiring seasonal statement that brightens even the winter landscape. Its inconspicuous flowers and small, nut-like fruits add subtle interest without detracting from its architectural appeal. With excellent resistance to deer and rabbits, this hornbeam is an ideal choice for hedges, foundation plantings, or as a striking specimen tree.
General Care
- Sunlight: Thrives in full sun to partial shade
- Watering: Water regularly after planting to establish deep roots; once established, requires minimal supplemental watering except during extended dry periods
- Mulching: Apply a 2–3 inch layer of mulch around the base to conserve moisture and stabilize soil temperature
- Pruning: Trim only dead or crossing branches in late winter to preserve its neat form
Refresh your landscape with the sophisticated Lucas European Hornbeam—a low-maintenance, deciduous tree that delivers remarkable fall color and enduring structure all year long.
