A tidy, compact hornbeam with a naturally columnar shape and fall color in golden yellow, perfect for structure in small spaces
FEATURES:
- Naturally narrow, columnar form for vertical structure without a wide footprint
- True dwarf habit that stays compact and landscape-friendly
- Dense branching and clean lines for a refined look in formal or modern plantings
- Excellent for entry gardens and tight beds where height is needed but space is limited
- Low-maintenance structure tree with minimal shaping required to stay neat
- Fall color in golden yellow for a warm seasonal finish
- Hand Selected; Fresh from the Grower
- Ships on our trucks because the size of the tree - does not fit in a box.
Bower & Branch Landscape Design Tip:
If a bed looks “flat,” add one vertical element. This tree is a great solution because it provides height without taking over. Use it like an exclamation point: one at a corner, two flanking a path, or a repeating line for a formal, finished look.
Growth Facts
- Hardiness Zone: 5-8
- Mature Height: 8-12' tall
- Mature Width: 3-5' wide
- Exposure: Full Sun to Part Shade
- Spacing: 3-5' apart
Dwarf Columnar European Hornbeam
Bower & Branch Trees and Plants
Carpinus betulus 'Columnaris Nana'
Regular priceSave 25% on All Tree Collections with code: SPRINGBEST25 at checkout.
Plant with Confidence when choosing Big & Tall Trees and Hedges!
A tidy, compact hornbeam with a naturally columnar shape and fall color in golden yellow, perfect for structure in small spaces
FEATURES:
- Naturally narrow, columnar form for vertical structure without a wide footprint
- True dwarf habit that stays compact and landscape-friendly
- Dense branching and clean lines for a refined look in formal or modern plantings
- Excellent for entry gardens and tight beds where height is needed but space is limited
- Low-maintenance structure tree with minimal shaping required to stay neat
- Fall color in golden yellow for a warm seasonal finish
- Hand Selected; Fresh from the Grower
- Ships on our trucks because the size of the tree - does not fit in a box.
Bower & Branch Landscape Design Tip:
If a bed looks “flat,” add one vertical element. This tree is a great solution because it provides height without taking over. Use it like an exclamation point: one at a corner, two flanking a path, or a repeating line for a formal, finished look.
Growth Facts
- Hardiness Zone: 5-8
- Mature Height: 8-12' tall
- Mature Width: 3-5' wide
- Exposure: Full Sun to Part Shade
- Spacing: 3-5' apart
Why plant Dwarf Columnar European Hornbeam?
Dwarf Columnar European Hornbeam brings instant order to a landscape. Its naturally tight, upright form creates strong vertical lines, which makes beds look more structured and intentional, especially in smaller spaces where every plant needs to pull its weight. The branching is dense and refined, giving it a tailored look that pairs beautifully with stone, brick, and clean-edged beds.
In fall, the foliage turns golden yellow, adding a warm seasonal note before leaf drop. This is a great choice when you want the architectural look of a columnar tree but need a compact plant that won’t overwhelm the space.
How to use Dwarf Columnar European Hornbeam in the landscape?
Use it to add vertical emphasis in tight planting beds, at the corners of foundation plantings, or as a paired accent on either side of an entry path. It’s also an excellent choice for small courtyards where you want height and structure without blocking sightlines or taking up valuable width. Plant it in repetition along a walkway or driveway edge for a rhythmic, formal look, and pair it with low, mounded evergreens or ornamental grasses to balance the columnar shape. Give it a clean base, mulch, gravel, or a simple groundcover, so the form reads crisp and intentional.
Frequently Asked Questions
Hornbeams do not have showy blooms. They produce small spring catkins that are subtle, and the main ornamental features are the tidy form, foliage texture, and fall color.
Typically very little. The habit is naturally narrow and upright. If shaping is desired, do light pruning in late winter while dormant, focusing on any wayward or crossing branches.
Yes. Its dwarf size and narrow width make it ideal for tight foundation beds, courtyards, and entry gardens where you want height and structure without a large canopy.
