19. Globe Hornbeam

(Carpinus Betulus 'Globosa')

[Globe Hornbeam]

Fifteen round-headed European Hornbeam trees are packed in front of the HUB by Stevens Way. They are wonderfully formal, but oppressively crowded. In early spring when the fresh green leaves cover them they are lovely. Since this species is weak both in floral beauty and attractive fall color, we cherish it for its form and foliage. Normally people plant the flame-shaped variety known as pyramidal hornbeam (such as 3 east of Kincaid Hall). These globular HUB trees are actually nursery productions which comprise a regular hornbeam trunk being used to topgraft a round, bushy variant that otherwise couldn't be termed a tree. Originally from Europe, the globe hornbeam has been in the U.S. for more than 100 years.

[Leaves and seeds of Globe Hornbeam]

Pictured below: Map showing geographical range of Globe Hornbeam.

[Globe Hornbeam range map]

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Campus Public Art Program
University of Washington
Box 353440
Seattle, WA 98195
Published Online: July 1997