Carpinus caroliniana - Carolina ironwood
Family Betulaceae

Description:

About 25 species of Carpinus are native to Asia, Europe, and North America. This deciduous tree is native to the eastern United States. It is distinguished by a smooth gray trunk that is irregularly fluted. Leaves are simple with teeth along the margin. Flowers and fruits are inconspicuous. The wood is very hard and resists splitting. Because the tree is small, its lumber has relatively few uses. Reportedly, it has been used to make dishes and tool handles. American Indians used this tree to treat several ailments.

Location:

See this plant along the Lake Oneida boardwalk.

Size:

Small tree to about twenty feet tall.

Care Instructions:

Light: sun, part shade

Water: moist soil, limited drought tolerance

Soil: adaptable to soil types, no special requirements

This is an uncommon plant in northeast Florida nurseries and gardens. It is an easy plant to grow provided the site is not too dry.