When young, Fastigiata Hornbeam, Carpinus betula, is an attractive, densely branched, columnar tree. It ages into a stately, broad cone shape with handsome, fluted, gray bark. Distinctive, dark green foliage turns yellow-orange in fall.

Plant Fastigiata Hornbeam groups as a screen or windbreak, or use it as a specimen in a narrow yard or street side. It takes well to hard pruning as a formal hedge.

Winner of the Missouri Botanical Gardens Plant of Merit Award for its ornamental value and ease of care.

Plant Fastigiata Hornbeam in full sun to part shade. When planting, amend the soil with compost and add a starter fertilizer like Biotone Starter Plus. Water regularly through the first three years to encourage a healthy root system.