Hornbeam : Shrub with useful oils

Hornbeam trees are easy to grow yourself. They do well in most places. They don't need much care and handle trimming without problems.

Hornbeams are often full-sized trees. Some types look like big bushes. The plant belongs to the Birch family. Its scientific name is Cárpinus. The tree's trunk has ridges. The bark is gray and can be smooth or have small cracks.

Leaves are 3 to 10 centimeters long. The tree produces nuts in groups of 10 to 30. The seeds lack endosperm but have cotyledons above ground.

This tree resists disease well. Usually, it only gets heart rot.

Hornbeams mostly grow in Asia, especially China. In Europe, there are just two types, but they grow almost everywhere. In Russia, you can only find them in the Caucasus. Hornbeams also grow in Iran.

People use hornbeams in many ways. They're popular for landscaping. You can trim them into hedges and walls with gazebos. The tree looks good alone or in groups. Bath brooms made from hornbeam are highly valued.

The wood is strong and used for furniture and decor. It's good for tables, cabinets, cutting boards, and instruments. Farm animals enjoy eating the branches, leaves, and nuts. Useful oils from the tree are used in beauty products.

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