Carpinus betulus 'Fastigiata'
An upright deciduous tree with a compact branching habit. Leaves are mid-green, with a serrated edge and a corrugated texture. In autumn, leaves turn a golden-yellow before falling to reveal the smooth, grey-brown bark.
Cultural
Carpinus are slow growing but require very little maintenance. Tolerant of frost, urban pollution and light coastal conditions.
Soil:
Tolerates any well-drained soil.
Aspect:
Full sun to part shade.
Maintenance:
If shaping is required, prune in late autumn before the leaves start to change colour. For pleached or topiary specimens, prune in early spring and autumn. Apply a slow-release fertiliser in spring to promote healthy growth. Will benefit from an annual application of mulch.
Water Requirements:
Moderately drought tolerant once established but will benefit from supplementary watering.
Seasonal Interest:
Autumn foliage colour.
Landscape Uses
This fastigiate Hornbeam is perfect for narrow spaces, avenue planting and hedging. They respond well to pruning and can be clipped into creative topiary, or used as a pleached deciduous hedge.
Dimensions
Height to 12.0m
Width to 4.0m
Width to 4.0m