Native Plant Spotlight | Musclewood

Native to Riverwoods, Musclewood (Corylaceae) also known as Blue Beech, American Hornbeam, and Ironwood is a small slow growing deciduous tree with green summer leaves that has a crooked trunk with a broad round top. Its name comes from the muscular appearance of its bark. 

• Ornamental Value: blooms early to late spring as the leaves develop. In the autumn the leaves turn yellow, orange and red. The small nuts produced by the tree feed a variety of birds.
• Growing Conditions: partial sun to moderate shade in moist well drained soil is preferred. 
• Mature Size: Up to 35 feet tall. 

Native Tree & Shrub Planting Cost-Share Program

To help restore the ecological health of our woodlands, residents are encouraged to plant native trees, shrubs, flowers and other plant species.  You might qualify for a Native Tree & Shrub Planting cost-share program, with the Village covering half of the cost of the plants and the planting. 

Your property may qualify for one or more of the Village's Cost-Share programs, which can not only help restore the ecological health of Riverwoods, but can also improve your property's ornamental landscape and real estate value. To see which cost-share programs your property qualifies for, request an Ecological Consultation with the Village Ecologist.