Hornbeam, European Columnar

Carpinus betulus 'Fastigiata'

Height: 30-40ft
Spread: 20-30ft
Zone: 4-8
Exposure: Full sun to part shade
Growth Rate: Slow
Bloom Time/Color: N/A
Fall Color: Yellow/orange
Uses: Specimen, shade tree, street tree, hedge
Maintenance: Low
Tree Shape: Upright, pyramidal
Other: N/A

Columnar European hornbeam is a very durable tree that makes an excellent choice for hedges, street or shade tree, or as a specimen in the landscape. It is identified by its erect, conical/pyramidal architecture and elliptical, toothed dark green leaves that turn a muted yellow/orange in autumn. Insignificant catkins appear in spring and mature into dropping nutlets that are quite ornamental. Bark is a smooth grey and the trunk is fluted in maturity adding interest to the winter landscape. Trees prefer well-drained soils in full sun to part shade. They also have little to no disease or insect issues and tolerate some periods of drought.