American hornbeam, also called musclewood or blue beech, is a small tree with smooth, gray, muscular-looking bark and toothed leaves. The fruit is a small nutlet attached to a leafy bract.
Habitat and range
In Maryland, American hornbeam grows in moist woods, along streams, and in forest understories, often in shade. It prefers rich, well-drained soils and is common in piedmont and coastal plain forests.
Uses and significance
The wood is very hard and used for tool handles and levers. The tree provides food and cover for wildlife and is planted as an ornamental for its form and fall color. It is an important understory species in eastern hardwood forests.