Carpinus caroliniana
Owner: Ghesquire Plant Farm Ltd.
Nominator: Ghesquire Plant Farm Ltd.
Height: 18.9 m (62 ft)
Diameter: 27.9 cm (11 in)
Circumference: 87.6 cm (34.5 in)
Description
The Blue Beech is a small tree or large shrub that can grow up to 8 m high. It is also known as American hornbeam, Musclewood or Ironwood. The word ‘hornbeam’ comes from the words ‘horn’ for ‘toughness’ and ‘beam’ an old English word for ‘tree’ and refers to this tree’s very hard, tough wood. This species prefers deep, moist soils along streams, in ravines and along the borders of swamps. It will tolerate a variety of soil types, though not overly acidic soils. Blue beech can be found in southern Ontario and Quebec and from Michigan to Maine and south to Florida in the United States. It tolerates areas of sun or shade and is often found as a small understory tree with multiple stems. Blue beech can be distinguished from other trees by its dark tray smooth trunk that has a distinctly muscle-like texture. Early pioneers used this tree to make bowls and dishes, and the wood is so strong it has even been used on Rolls Royce’s outside doors. (Source: Focus on Forests)
Blue Beech trunk 
(Source: Muhlenberg College)