Lower Risk

Carpinus betulus (European Hornbeam)

This deciduous tree is native to western Asia and Europe (including southern England). Despite being in ornamental trade in Australia since 1865, European Hornbeam has not naturalised. Although naturalised in some parts of the US, there is no evidence that this species is invasive outside its native range. European Hornbeam spreads via both seed and root suckers. Flowers are not produced until the tree is about 20 years old, and the seed does not generally germinate until the spring of the second year. The winged fruits are dispersed by wind and possibly birds.