Frans Fontaine Hornbeam Tree

A striking, full pyramid of lush foliage

The Frans Fontaine Hornbeam Tree stands out with its magnificent pyramidal shape and dense canopy that extends neatly to the ground. This majestic tree boasts a sculptural elegance, making it a fabulous focal point for any yard or landscape. Its rich green leaves create a vibrant visual impact throughout the seasons, transitioning from a lush summer green to a golden-yellow in the fall—highlighting its potential to transform your garden into a stunning showcase year-round.

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, this tree is a robust choice for many landscapes. Its adaptability to various soil types and drought resistance make it a practical addition to gardens, providing shade and a habitat for local wildlife. Given its neat growth habit, it is easier to maintain than many other larger trees, creating a lush, fuller appearance without the worry of excessive spread. Opting for the Frans Fontaine Hornbeam means you're choosing a resilient partner in your landscape journey.

Planting & Care

1. Planting: Plant or repot within 4 weeks of arrival. Remove the stake and ties at planting, as these are only for shipping. Choose a location with well-drained soil and adequate sunlight, ideally a spot that receives partial shade to full sun. Dig a hole that is twice the width of the root ball and just as deep to ensure the roots are well spread out.  Place the tree in the hole so that the top of the rootball is level with the soil.  Backfill and spread a 3" layer of mulch three feet around the tree, pulling the mulch back several inches from the trunk.

2. Watering: Water the Frans Fontaine Hornbeam deeply and regularly, especially during the first growing season to establish a strong root system. Once established, the tree is drought-resistant but benefits from supplemental watering during prolonged dry periods.

3. Pruning: Prune the tree as needed to maintain its shape and remove any dead or unhealthy branches. The best time to prune late summer to winter to avoid sap bleeding. Ensure that cuts are clean. Hornbeams are well suited to heavy pruning when grown as a hedge.

4. Fertilizing: Provide a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to encourage healthy growth. Once established, you may reduce the frequency of fertilization to every couple of years based on soil conditions and tree health.