Carpinus betulus 'Lucas'

RHS Plant Profile
hornbeam 'Lucas'
Award of Garden Merit
Trees

Columnar deciduous tree about 8m in height when mature, broadening with age. Bright-green foliage in spring and summer, turns a rich golden yellow in autumn, the dead brown leaves are retained through winter. Produces green catkins in late spring and clusters of winged fruit later in the year

Position

Full sun, Partial shade

Soil Types

Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand

Max Height

8-12 metres

Max Spread

2.5-4 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
10–20 years
Max Spread
2.5-4 metres
Max Height
8-12 metres

Growing Conditions

Chalk Clay Loam Sand
Moisture
Poorly–drained or Well–drained or Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H7

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Betulaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Columnar upright
Genus
Carpinus are deciduous shrubs and trees with attractive foliage and hop-like fruit clusters in late summer and autumn
Name Status
Accepted

How to Grow

Cultivation

Easy to grow in most soils after establishment including those which are dry or wet.

Propagation

Propagate by softwood cuttings in spring and early summer or grafting

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Architectural
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Wildlife gardens

Pruning

Pruning group 1

Pests

May be susceptible to caterpillars and aphids

Diseases

May be susceptible to powdery mildews, coral spot and sometimes honey fungus