Carpinus betulus

Carpinus betulusThe Carpinus betulus more commonly known as the Hornbeam is often confused with the common Beech with similar shaped leaves, however, Hornbeam leaves are smaller and more deeply grooved than Beech leaves. The Hornbeam is monoecious, meaning that both female and male catkins can be found on the same tree. After pollination, the female catkins progress into delicate, green winged fruits, known as Samaras. Small birds and mammals feed on these Samaras

as well as keeping it placed in full sun at the best of times

The growing season - Spring into Summer - is where the magic happens

It is recommended to plant this shrub on flower beds

Plant in well-drained soil and maintain soil moisture

The deep red flowers appear almost black when they first form

Brunnera Alexanders Great is a deciduous perennial that boasts some impressive

creamy-white flowers which appear from Spring to Summer

They will tolerate most soils that are kept moist and well-drained

well-drained soil and prefers full sun to partial shade

low growing fern with evergreen foliage

It prefers growing in a well-drained soil and turns drought and salty wind tolerant as it matures

and watered when the top soil is dry to touch