Carpinus betulus ‘Fastigiata’ | Upright Hornbeam

The Carpinus betulus 'Fastigiata' tree is an upright form of the native Carpinus betulus. This tree has tightly ascending branches and dense foliage making it ideal for screening in restricted spaces, and its uniformity creates perfect avenues. However, although narrow and slender when young this tree broadens with age so allow plenty of growing space. The leaves are ovate, deeply ribbed and have serrated edges, they turn from a fresh green in spring to yellow and orange in autumn. Long, green catkins also appear in spring followed by winged-seed in autumn. Like the Carpinus betulus, this tree will thrive in most soil, including chalk and clay, and will tolerate exposed sites, drought and some water-logging. The Carpinus betulus 'Fastigiata' is suitable where soil conditions are poor. This is a hardy tree and very versatile, it can be planted to create high hedging, as a specimen tree or to create an avenue. The wonderful architectural shape of this tree makes it a great feature tree for any landscaping scheme.

Mature Height

12m+

Tree Features

Tightly ascending branches and dense foliage in a uniform shape.

Narrow and slender when young, broadens with maturity.

Leaves are ovate, deeply ribbed and have serrated edges. They turn from a fresh green in spring to yellow and orange in autumn.

Long, green catkins also appear in spring followed winged-seed in autumn.

Growing Conditions

Will thrive in most soil including chalk and clay, and will tolerate exposed sites, drought and some water-logging.

Season of Interest

Spring - Fresh, green, ovate leaves deeply ribbed with serrated edges.

Autumn - Leaves turn yellow and orange.

Tree Type

Standard, Feathered, Hedging, Pleached, Box head

Growing Locations

Gardens, Parklands, Avenues, Screening, Hedging, City/Towns, Broad Streets, Windbreaks, Wet Sites, Specimen Tree

Evergreen / Deciduous?

Deciduous
Did you know?

The Carpinus betulus 'Fastigiata' was awarded the Award of Garden Merit by the RHS in 2002.