Carpinus betulus 'Fastigiata' – A Columnar, Hardy Tree with Elegant Green Foliage and Year-Round Interest
Carpinus betulus 'Fastigiata', commonly known as the Fastigiate Hornbeam, is a striking deciduous tree renowned for its columnar shape and dense, upright growth habit. This variety of Hornbeam is perfect for adding vertical structure to any garden or landscape. With its glossy green leaves that turn golden-yellow in autumn, 'Fastigiata' provides year-round beauty and seasonal interest. This versatile tree is a great choice for narrow spaces, urban environments, or as a formal hedge or screen, offering both elegance and resilience to a variety of settings.
Why Grow Carpinus betulus 'Fastigiata'?
Columnar Growth Habit – 'Fastigiata' is characterized by its narrow, upright form, making it ideal for smaller spaces or as part of a formal hedge. Its vertical shape adds height and structure to the garden without taking up excessive space.
Year-Round Foliage – In spring and summer, the tree boasts glossy, dark green leaves that provide a lush backdrop to the garden. As autumn approaches, the foliage turns a warm golden-yellow, adding seasonal vibrancy and visual interest to the landscape.
Hardy & Resilient – Carpinus betulus 'Fastigiata' is a hardy tree, tolerant of a range of soil conditions, and capable of withstanding both cold winters and hot summers. Its adaptability makes it a perfect choice for many different climates and garden settings.
Low Maintenance – This tree is low-maintenance once established. It requires minimal pruning and is resistant to many common pests and diseases, making it an excellent choice for gardeners looking for a reliable and easy-to-grow tree.
Planting & Care Guide
Position: Prefers full sun to partial shade, with the best growth occurring in sunny locations. While it can tolerate some shade, it performs best with plenty of sunlight, which enhances the colour and density of the foliage.
Soil: Best planted in well-drained, fertile soil. It is tolerant of a variety of soil types, from slightly acidic to neutral, and can adapt to clay or loamy soil, as long as drainage is good.
Watering: Water regularly, especially during dry spells or when newly planted. Once established, the Fastigiate Hornbeam is moderately drought-tolerant but benefits from consistent moisture for optimal growth.
Maintenance:
Pruning is minimal, though light shaping can be done in late winter or early spring to maintain a clean, tidy form. This will help maintain its columnar shape and remove any dead or damaged wood.
Mulching around the base of the tree can help retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and prevent weed growth. It is especially useful during hot summers and can protect the root system in winter.
Fertilizing is generally not necessary, but a balanced fertilizer in early spring can encourage healthy growth, especially for trees that are planted in poor soil.
Perfect Plant Combinations
Carpinus betulus 'Fastigiata' pairs beautifully with other vertical plants such as columnar evergreens like Thuja or Italian Cypress, where its tall, narrow shape complements the linear forms of other plants. For a formal garden, combine with low-growing perennials like Lavender, Hosta, or groundcovers that allow the upright form of the Hornbeam to take centre stage. It also works well in urban settings, where its tolerance for a variety of conditions, including poor soil and air pollution, makes it a reliable choice. To highlight its autumn colour, plant it alongside other deciduous trees with vibrant fall foliage, such as Maples or Oaks, creating a striking seasonal display.
Does the height include the pot?
No, we measure from the top of the pot to the tip of the plant except for some of the instant planted screens, in this case it will be stated in the description
How long does delivery take?
Most orders are delivered in just a few days, Smaller items are often sent with Parcelforce on a next day service, Larger items should allow up to 10 days due to the size of the items they often have to be sent on our own transport.
Where will you leave my plants?
We will leave your order at the front of your property, Parcelforce may
leave your items in a safe place if you let us know, Pallet couriers
will require a flat hard surface to deliver to, no gravel or soil, a
driveway or parking spot would be best. Most importantly Deliveries by
pallet courier will require access for a large truck (bin lorry sized)
to get near the delivery point. Deliveries sent on our own transport may come in a small van or larger truck.
