Skylark™ Hornbeam

Carpinus x ‘Shelby’

Introduced by: Heritage Seedlings and Liners, LLC
Hybridized by: Dr. Harold Pellett, former professor at UMN, a cross between Carpinus caroliniana x Carpinus betulus ‘Fastigiata’

Exposure: Sun | Zones: 5 to 8
Height: 25 – 35′ | Width: 10 – 15′

Carpinus x ‘Shelby’ Skylark™ resulted from Dr. Pellett’s effort to breed a more cold-hardy fastigiate hornbeam. It has a relatively narrow upright form, a compact habit, and deep green serrated foliage. With age, the bark becomes more attractive with a fluted character. Skylark is superior to the common C. betulus ‘Fastigiata’ because it maintains its columnar form, whereas; ‘Fastigiata’ becomes wide spreading with age – not at all columnar in outline. Skylark has no apparent disease or major insect pest issues and is also more widely adapted in cold winter climates. Its prominent mycorrhizal roots help it remain attractive and growing well during dry summers with little or no irrigation.

Available as “XP” extra-large plug, 1–2 feet and 2–3 feet tall from Heritage Seedlings and Liners LLC.