treeN. America Native

Firespire American Hornbeam

Carpinus caroliniana 'Firespire'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

Expertly Curated

Real-Time Pricing

Loved by Designers

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

240 inches

Width

120 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Medium to wet

Humidity

Adaptable

Lifespan

Long-lived deciduous tree

Native To

Eastern North America

Toxicity

Non-toxic

The Story

Plant Bio

Carpinus caroliniana, or American Hornbeam, is a slow-growing, deciduous understory tree noted for its hard, fluted wood and attractive sinewy gray bark. 'Firespire' is a distinctive cultivar selected for its tight, upright, columnar form and consistently brilliant orange-red fall color, making it ideal for narrow spaces.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

The primary appeal of 'Firespire' is its tight, columnar shape and fiery autumn colors. Its smooth, gray, fluted bark adds significant winter interest, resembling flexed muscles. It provides a strong vertical element in the landscape year-round.

Its narrow form makes it an outstanding choice for screening, hedging, or for use as a street tree in urban areas with limited space. It can define a property line or frame a view without taking up a large footprint.

As a native tree, it supports local ecosystems. The seeds (nutlets) are eaten by birds like finches and grouse, and the tree serves as a larval host for several butterfly species, including the Eastern Tiger Swallowtail.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

Select a site from full sun to full shade.
Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball.
Place the tree ensuring the root flare is at soil level.
Backfill with native soil, removing air pockets.
Water deeply and consistently after planting.
Mulch around the base, avoiding contact with the trunk.

Pro Tip

Though adaptable, consistent moisture during the first few years is key to establishing a strong root system for this slow-growing tree.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly during establishment and extended droughts.
Allow the tree to develop its natural form with minimal pruning.
Appreciate the smooth, muscle-like bark, especially in winter.
Plant in slightly acidic soil for best performance.

Don't

Don't let the soil dry out completely for long periods.
Avoid heavy fertilization; it's not necessary.
Do not damage the thin bark with mowers or trimmers.
Avoid planting in extremely dry or compacted soils.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Mulch
Pest Check
Plant
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Excellent vertical accent for tight spacesEffective narrow hedge or privacy screenStunning street tree where space is limited

Companion Plants

Hydrangea quercifolia Tiarella cordifolia Asarum canadense Polystichum acrostichoides Amelanchier canadensis

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Firespire American Hornbeam questions

What zones can Firespire American Hornbeam grow in?

Firespire American Hornbeam is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Firespire American Hornbeam deer resistant?

Yes — Firespire American Hornbeam is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Firespire American Hornbeam bloom?

Firespire American Hornbeam typically blooms in mid-spring through mid-spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Firespire American Hornbeam need full sun?

Firespire American Hornbeam does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.