Hornbeams have trunks of 15 to 25 m high. Its grooved log is usually as long as half the tree. Its trunk has a diameter of 0.8-1.2 m.

Hornbeam wood is grey-white, with grey streaks and spots due to the large rays. There is no difference in colour between the heartwood and the sapwood. Hornbeam can be sliced in crowns or sliced on quarter.

 
This wood is particularly resistant to cracking, is strong and hard.
Due to its properties (strong, solid and uncracked), hornbeam is a preferred wood species for the technical industry and for tools.