Carpinus betulus ‘Frans Fontaine’ | Upright Hornbeam

The Carpinus betulus 'Frans Fontaine' is a narrow, columnar cultivar of the Carpinus betulus. This tree has a highly structural and uniform shape perfect for restricted spaces and avenues. Branches grow in an upright habit approximately 10m high, with a 3m spread. As with the Carpinus betulus, the Carpinus betulus 'Frans Fontaine' has fresh green leaves that emerge in spring and turn golden-yellow in autumn then the brown foliage often stays throughout winter. This tree will grow in most soil and conditions including chalk and clay, and is happy in full sun or shade. A tolerance of pollution and soil compaction makes this tree ideal for street planting and car parks. The Carpinus betulus 'Frans Fontaine' creates an instant hedge or screen, either as a clear-stem or feathered tree, and can be trimmed and maintained to the required height and shape.

Mature Height

5-10m or trimmed to required height.

Tree Features

Smooth, dark-grey bark.

Columnar form to 10m high and a width of 3m.

Fresh, green, oval leaves with serrated edges in spring that turn golden-yellow in autumn.

Can retain brown foliage during winter.

Growing Conditions

A hardy tree, this will grow in most soil including chalk, clay, dry and wet environments.

Tolerates full sun or shade, pollution and soil compaction.

Season of Interest

Summer - Canopy of fresh, green leaves.

Autumn - Leaves turn golden-yellow.

Winter - Dense branch structure and retention of brown leaves creates good screening.

Tree Type

Standard, Feathered

Growing Locations

Parkland, Avenues, Gardens in certain forms, Hedging, Street Trees, City/Town, Car Parks

Evergreen / Deciduous?

Deciduous
Did you know?

The Carpinus betulus 'Frans Fontaine' only has male green catkins April to May, therefore produces no fruit.