The three most popular varieties of columnar hornbeam

A comparison

The three most popular varieties of columnar hornbeam (Carpinus betulus) – 'Fastigiata', 'Frans Fontaine' and 'Lucas' – Although they are similar in their robust nature and good tolerance to pruning, they differ significantly in terms of growth habit, space requirements and suitability for different locations.

While “Fastigiata” impresses with its vigorous growth and density and requires a lot of space, “Frans Fontaine” is the compromise-ready all-rounder for modern, narrow spaces.

Finally, “Lucas” is the best choice for urban locations and where space is at a premium.

Characteristic	Fastigiata	Frans Fontaine	Lucas
Growth habit	Broad columnar	Slender columnar	Very narrow columnar
Growth height (approx.)	15-20 m	10-15 m	10-12 m
Crown width (approx.)	6-8 m	3-5 m	2-3 m
Growth habit	Vigorous, spreading with age	Moderate, uniform	Slow, compact
Pruning tolerance	Very good	Very good	Very good
Drought tolerance	Very good	Good (once established)	Robust, tolerates poor soils
Suitability for confined spaces	Limited	Good	Excellent
Recommended location	Avenues, large grounds	Street spaces, parks	Town squares, front gardens, hedges
Special features	Historically proven	Good climate tree, balanced	Very space-saving, climate-resilient

Carpinus betulus 'Fastigiata'

Carpinus betulus 'Frans Fontaine'

Carpinus betulus 'Lucas'

„The columnar hornbeam “Fastigiata” is ideal for formal gardens, “Fans Fontaine” with its picturesque overhanging habit is an eye-catcher in natural settings, and “Lucas” is particularly suitable for streets and cities."

Kirsten Cordes, Master gardener, Lorenz von Ehren Nursery

FAQ - Frequently asked questions

How does Carpinus betulus “Fastigiata” grow?

The “Fastigiata” variety is the classic representative of columnar hornbeams. It grows in a broad columnar to ovoid shape, reaching a width of 4–6 metres and a height of 10–15 metres. It grows relatively quickly and has a dense crown, making it an ideal choice for solitary locations or generous property boundaries. It is also well suited as a windbreak or privacy screen.

How does Carpinus betulus “Frans Fontaine” grow?
The “Frans Fontaine” variety is a slimmer alternative. It grows significantly narrower (approx. 3–4 metres) at a comparable height, but remains evenly columnar and shapely. Its growth is slightly slower than that of “Fastigiata”, but it is more space-saving – an ideal choice for parks, front gardens or property boundaries with limited space. The crown may thin out somewhat with age, but this can be easily controlled with regular pruning. One advantage is its good leaf retention in winter, which partially maintains privacy even when leafless.

How does Carpinus betulus “Lucas” grow?

The “Lucas” variety is the narrowest and slowest growing of the three. With a width of only 2–3 metres, it remains particularly compact, but grows very evenly and upright. It is ideal for small gardens and terraced house plots and is particularly suitable for urban locations, especially where space is limited. Here, it should be chosen instead of “Frans Fontaine”. It also scores points for its excellent leaf retention: the dried leaves remain on the tree for a long time and provide good privacy in winter.

Contact
Kirsten Cordes
Gardener
phone: +49 (0) 40 7681 -0
mail: LvE(at)LvE.de