Columnar Hornbeam (Carpinus betulus 'Fastigiata')
A columnar tree 35’X15’ slow grower that prefers an unrestricted root zone. Attractive white flowers in early summer producing a “bean pod†which hangs onto the tree though the winter.
Does well in drought and alkaline soils if root space is not confined as in parking lots and tree medians. Dark, thick, heart shaped leaf helps its ability to tolerate full sun and limited water. Is tolerant of pollution.
Restricted root zones from curb, pavement and sidewalks will cause trees to dieback. Intolerant of salt in the soil.
Trunk canker has been found on this species, however it is uncommon.
Occasionally attacked by two-lined chestnut borer. Japanese beetle is known to eat significant portions of the leaves but is not currently found along the Front Range.
Several available
Very desirable street tree for its upright form and tolerance of trimming. Has been used as a screen tree and in topiary for centuries. Pleaching is a technique employed by the hornbeam where single trunks are grown straight up and the limbs are trained to grow into adjacent hornbeams creating an elevated hedge. More common in Europe it is gaining popularity in the USA every year.
The wood is so hard it also known as "ironwood". traditionally it was used as axe handles, wagon wheel spokes and and often as cogs for various early industrial machines like steam engines. Iron took its place in industry as its price dropped and it became readily available.