Musclewood
Carpinus caroliniana
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
240"–480" H × 180"–360" W
Bloom
Apr, May
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 30 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
American hornbeam is a small understory tree with distinctive smooth, gray bark that resembles flexed muscle. It produces small catkins in spring and develops attractive yellow to orange fall color, making it an excellent choice for smaller landscapes.
In an HOA neighborhood
Musclewood is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
Wildlife value
Host plant for spring azure, white-marked tussock moth.
The spring flowers attract bees and beetles, while the small nutlets provide food for birds and squirrels. The tree also serves as a host plant for several native moth and butterfly species.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Musclewood fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.