Do Hornbeams make good trees?

[Si]

I have a small one growing up against an enormous fir tree that I am planning to remove. Will it bush out and fill the gap?

[Si]

[Spruance]

Yes I think so to some extent. I have seen typical dimensions after 20 years quoted as 20ft high x 9ft spread, but with an ultimate height of 60ft.( :o)

I have one at the bottom of my garden in anticipation of my rear neighbour eventually chopping down his elderberry tree. Mine has been in now for about two years and is around 7ft high and 5ft spread.

I intend to 'stop' mine before it gets anywhere near the maximum height though. 20ft high would be just about right for my garden.

[Si]

60ft  :o Wow, that would be something. A 20ft tree would be ideal though.
What I find strange is that they compete so well with Firs. Are they natives?

[saddad]

Fairly certain they are native Si... I've always fancied a whitebeam...
8)

[Si]

I've never fancied a whitebeam because they're too neat. I like something that makes me feel like I'm in a wild forest... or an orchard ;D But I do like the berries.