Musclewood
Carpinus caroliniana
Last reviewed: June 2026
Carpinus caroliniana (American Hornbeam or Musclewood) is a native deciduous tree found throughout eastern North America. It blooms in April and May, providing early season resources for bees and beetles.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Musclewood as toxic to livestock.
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.
Growing Musclewood
Grow Musclewood in part shade and medium water. Mature plants reach 240 to 480 inches tall and spread 180 to 360 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
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.
Common questions
- Where does Carpinus caroliniana naturally grow?
- American Hornbeam is native to eastern North America, from Maine south to Florida and west to Minnesota, Kansas, and eastern Texas.
- When does Musclewood bloom?
- Carpinus caroliniana typically blooms in April and May, producing small catkins before the leaves fully emerge.
- What pollinators visit American Hornbeam?
- The flowers attract bees and beetles, providing important early season nectar and pollen resources.
- What growing conditions does Carpinus caroliniana prefer?
- This adaptable tree tolerates a range of light conditions from partial sun to shade and grows in various moisture levels, though it performs best with consistent moisture.
- Is Musclewood toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Musclewood as toxic to livestock.
- Is Musclewood HOA-friendly?
- Musclewood is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
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.
Ready to grow Musclewood? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz