American Hornbeam Carpinus caroliniana is a small (16’ X 10’) deciduous, understory tree that occurs almost statewide in moist woods, especially alluvial Bottomland Hardwood Forests. Of landscaping interest, the trunk is fluted and covered with smooth, bluish-gray bark; hence, another common name for this species is Musclewood. Its leaves exhibit hues of yellow in the fall. American Hornbeam can be grown in most soil types and part shade. Its seeds are eaten by small mammals and birds, especially Purple Finch.