A general resemblance of leaves, buds and bark often leads to confusion between Hornbeam and Beech, so it is as well to stress the points that mark the Hornbeam out. Hornbeam leaves are about the same size and shape as Beech, but their edges are doubly toothed more like many of the Elms. Indeed, some of the Elms are more confused with Hornbeam.
In England Carpinus betulus is only considered native, or autochthonous in the eastern counties, and it is regarded as a late arrival from Europe about 7000 years ago, and is said that it has not had time to spread. That last part is of-course nonsense, and I would say that it has always been restricted to the calcareous soils of the east. If this species is autochthonous anywhere in the whole south-west then it is only in the Bristol-Gloucestershire (vc34, vc33) area. In all other south-west vice-counties it is either an archaeophyte or in the case of Cornwall a neophyte. It may also be considered autochthonous in the New Forest area. Although when planted it will grow quite happily on any soil.
Hornbeam produces the hardest wood that can be grown in Europe. It is pale, close-ringed and heavy. This is traditionally the wood needed for cogs and beams in watermills and windmills. The common name refers to the horny texture of the wood, together with the German name for tree "baum". Carpinus betulus is a FRM controlled species.
Hornbeam is a temperate species with a liking for moist soils. Best growth is on soils of fresh to moist moisture status and of moderate nutrient status such as damp clays, clay with flints, and acid brown earths; it will grow on alkaline soils provided these are neither too shallow nor too dry. It does not tolerate peaty soils or those of very poor nutrient status. A suitable alternative species to beech on wet soils or those prone to periods of waterlogging.
It is a comparatively slow growing and shade tolerant species which is very cold hardy and frost resistant. It is not tolerant of exposure and is adapted to the more continental climates of eastern and lowland Britain.
