Plant Database
Frans Fontaine Columnar European Hornbeam
Carpinus betulus ‘Frans Fontaine’
Frans Fontaine Hornbeam is the definitive choice for vertical structure. This densely branched, narrowly columnar tree forms a living green wall or a crisp, formal sentinel without the need for constant shearing. Its crisp green summer foliage, golden fall color, and ability to thrive in a variety of conditions make it an invaluable, low-maintenance architectural tree for modern Bay Area gardens.
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Grows in an exceptionally tight, uniform columnar shape, maintaining its narrow width (only 10-15 ft) even at maturity, perfect for tight spaces and formal avenues.
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Provides superb, dense screening and vertical accent; can be planted in a row to create a tall, solid hedge or allee without the width of traditional trees.
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Features crisp, pleated green leaves that turn a handsome golden-yellow in fall, with some dried leaves often persisting into winter for added texture.
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Extremely adaptable to a wide range of soils, including heavy clay, and once established, has good drought tolerance. It thrives in both full sun and part shade.
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Requires little to no pruning to maintain its natural columnar form, making it an exceptionally low-maintenance structural plant.