Frans Fontaine Hornbeam Ornamental Tree (Carpinus Betulus 'Frans Fontaine')

Frans Fontaine Hornbeam Ornamental Tree Description

The Frans Fontaine Hornbeam is a charming deciduous tree distinguished by its elegant, narrow, columnar shape. This ornamental tree typically reaches a height of 10–12 metres (33–39 feet) with a spread of approximately 3–4 metres (10–13 feet), making it an excellent choice for smaller gardens, urban landscapes, and formal settings where space is limited. Its attractive form and foliage make it a popular choice among gardeners and landscape designers.

The Frans Fontaine Hornbeam features dark green, serrated leaves that are oval in shape. These leaves provide a lush, dense canopy throughout the growing season and turn a brilliant golden-yellow in autumn, creating a warm and vibrant display. In spring, the tree produces inconspicuous catkins, which add subtle seasonal interest. The dense foliage, along with the tree’s upright growth habit, makes it an ideal candidate for creating privacy screens or hedges.

Pruning Advice

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

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

Further Information

Ornamental Value: The Frans Fontaine Hornbeam's unique columnar form and attractive foliage make it a striking feature in any landscape. Its elegant silhouette adds vertical interest and structure to gardens, parks, and urban spaces.

Wildlife Support: This tree attracts various pollinators with its catkins in spring, contributing to local biodiversity. The nuts produced in late summer are a food source for birds and small mammals.

Adaptability: The Frans Fontaine 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 £100 | or £7.99 charge.

* Tall Sized Boxes (Bare roots 1.2m & over) | Free UK Mainland Delivery for orders over £100 | or £14.99 charge.

* Pallets (Root balls, large pots 10L+, trees etc | Free UK Mainland Delivery for orders over £350 | or £60 charge.

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