Fastigiate Hornbeam Ornamental Tree (Carpinus Betulus 'Fastigiata')

Fastigiate Hornbeam Ornamental Tree Description

The Fastigiate Hornbeam is a distinctive deciduous tree known for its upright, columnar growth habit and dense, narrow crown. This ornamental tree typically reaches heights of 10–15 metres (33–49 feet) and maintains a compact spread of about 4–6 metres (13–20 feet). Its elegant form makes it a popular choice for formal gardens, urban landscaping, and as a feature tree in smaller spaces.

The Fastigiate Hornbeam features attractive, serrated, oval-shaped leaves that are a rich green during the growing season. These leaves turn a vibrant yellow or golden hue in autumn, adding a warm touch to the landscape. The tree also produces small, inconspicuous flowers in spring, which are followed by unique, leafy bracts that contain small nuts, contributing to its visual interest.

One of the most appealing aspects of the Fastigiate Hornbeam is its dense foliage and neat growth habit. The tree maintains its shape well, making it an excellent choice for hedging, screening, or as a formal avenue tree.

Pruning Advice

Pruning is an essential aspect of maintaining the health and appearance of the Fastigiate Hornbeam. The best time to prune is during late winter or early spring, just before new growth begins. During this time, remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches to encourage healthy growth and improve air circulation within the canopy.

To maintain its neat, columnar shape, light trimming can be done throughout the growing season. This can help to control size and promote denser foliage. However, avoid excessive pruning, as this can stress the tree and reduce its overall vitality. Regular maintenance will help to preserve the tree's form and enhance its ornamental qualities.

Further Information

Ornamental Value: The Fastigiate Hornbeam's unique columnar form and attractive foliage make it a striking feature in any landscape. It works well in tight spaces and can provide vertical interest in gardens and urban settings.

Wildlife Support: The tree's flowers attract various pollinators, including bees, while its seeds provide food for birds and other wildlife, contributing to local biodiversity.

Adaptability: The Fastigiate Hornbeam is highly adaptable and can thrive in a variety of soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils. It prefers well-drained conditions and can tolerate both acidic and alkaline soils, making it suitable for diverse planting environments.

Low Maintenance: This tree is relatively low-maintenance once established. It is resistant to pests and diseases, making it a reliable choice for urban and suburban gardens.

Delivery & Returns

Free delivery is available on most orders (except Premium Products) providing they meet the minimum spend criteria for the size of box or pallet. Pallet deliveries and large box deliveries for tall plants are indicated by icons on the product table listings. Delivery costs and minimum order details for each packaging type are as follows:

* Standard Sized Boxes (Bare root up to 1.2m tall & pots up to 7.5L) | Free UK Mainland Delivery for orders over £250 | or £9.98 charge.

* Tall Sized Boxes (Bare roots 1.2m & over) | Free UK Mainland Delivery for orders over £250 | or £24.99 charge.

* Pallets (Root balls, large pots 10L+, trees etc | Free UK Mainland Delivery for orders over £350 | or £82 charge.

* Pleached Trees (Specialist Delivery) | Free UK Mainland Delivery for orders over £1500 | or £450 charge.