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LUCAS COLUMNAR EUROPEAN HORNBEAM

LUCAS COLUMNAR EUROPEAN HORNBEAM

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#6747

LUCAS COLUMNAR EUROPEAN HORNBEAM

Carpinus betulus 'Lucas'

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Root Pouch 5 gallon (SKU: 20095)
0 - Available Now - Details   -   Grown in Root Pouch®.

List Price $185.00 Per Plant

Hardiness Zone: 5-8   ·   Mature Height: 25-30 Feet   ·   Mature Spread: 8-10 Feet

Meet Lucas Columnar European Hornbeam—a tree that's all ambition and no sprawl. With an elegant upright form, it's ideal for tight fences, alleys, and modern landscapes that crave structure without crowding. The glossy, serrated green leaves persist through summer, then blaze in gold before curling to warm chestnut in winter—offering interest in every season.

This cultivar is a refined version of European Hornbeam, selected for its narrow profile, durability, and ability to thrive in challenging soils. Unlike many dramatic ornamentals, Lucas Columnar European Hornbeam plays nice with pH swings, tolerates heavier clay, and even accepts urban stress. In spring, subtle catkins emerge, and come fall, the leaves linger longer than many deciduous trees, giving you extended color even after most others have dropped.

Use it as a living screen, a vertical accent, or a refined hedge. Plant several in a row to define a driveway, border, or entryway. It's the kind of tree that quietly commands attention—elevating any space with grace, texture, and structure — all while requiring little intervention.

Family: Betulaceae · Common Name: Hornbeam

FREE with every plant purchased:

  • The Sooner Guarantee: For details, click here!
  • A pre-applied, pre-measured amount of time release fertilizer that keeps your plant well nourished for up to one year.
  • Pre-hydrated Hydro-Gels are included in the top of each container to use when planting as they help retain soil moisture, and plants will establish more quickly with less transplant shock. Plants will also survive drought-like conditions and accidental missed waterings better.
  • Planting and Care Instruction brochure.
  • Catalogs of new and exciting plant brands, such as Garden Debut® and Proven Winners®.

DIY Irrigation SuppliesWe use and recommend www.dripdepot.com for our irrigation needs, from simple to install micro and drip systems, to commercial grade irrigation parts and supplies.

DIY Irrigation SuppliesWe use and recommend www.dripdepot.com for our irrigation needs, from simple to install micro and drip systems, to commercial grade irrigation parts and supplies.

LUCAS COLUMNAR EUROPEAN HORNBEAM Plant Characteristics

Bark Color*
Gray
Bark Type*
Smooth
Growth Rate*
Medium
Leaf Color Spring*
Green
Leaf Color Summer*
Green
Leaf Type*
Deciduous/Herbaceous
Nature Assets*
Attracts Birds
Deer Resistant
Plant Type*
Tree
Preferred Planting Season*
Fall Planting
Spring Planting
Summer Planting
Propagation Methods*
Cuttings or Divisions
Seed
Season of Interest*
Fall
Late Spring/Early Summer
Late Summer/Early Autumn
Spring
Summer

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LUCAS COLUMNAR EUROPEAN HORNBEAM Homeowner Growing & Maintenance Tips

  • Recommended Soil:
    • Well-drained loam or clay-loam; tolerates heavier soils.
    • pH adaptable (neutral to slightly alkaline or acidic).
    • Enrich planting hole with compost or well-rotted organic matter.

  • Sun Exposure:
    • Full sun to partial shade (at least 4–6 hours of direct sun).
    • In hotter climates, light afternoon shade is helpful.

  • Irrigation Needs:
    • Moderate — water deeply during first 1–2 years while establishing.
    • Reduce frequency once established; occasional deep watering during drought.
    • Mulch 3–4 inches around base (but keep off trunk) to retain moisture.

  • Feeding & Nutrients:
    • In early spring, apply a slow-release balanced fertilizer.
    • Topdress with compost or leaf mold annually.
    • Avoid heavy fertilization — too much nitrogen can promote weak growth.

  • Pruning & Maintenance:
    • Minimal pruning needed to maintain narrow columnar form.
    • Prune only in late winter (dormant) — remove crossing branches or dead wood.
    • Light shearing is possible if used as hedge or screen.
    • Monitor for aphids, caterpillars, or powdery mildew; treat if necessary.

Interesting Notes About LUCAS COLUMNAR EUROPEAN HORNBEAM

  • Narrow By Design (Not by Accident): 'Lucas' was specifically selected for its exceptionally tight, columnar habit — even narrower than many "fastigiate" hornbeams. It's perfect for confined spaces or formal symmetry.
  • Leaves That Hang On: Unlike many deciduous trees, Lucas holds onto its brownish leaves well into winter — a natural trait called marcescence — giving year-round privacy and structure.
  • Soil Flex Champ: This tree tolerates a wide range of soils — from heavy clay to chalky or loamy types — making it an adaptable option for urban yards, streetscapes, or large garden designs.
  • Quiet Show, No Mess: Though it produces small catkins and fruiting structures, Lucas doesn't drop large seeds or make a mess, making it a low-maintenance choice for refined landscapes.
  • A European Classic Reimagined: A modern selection of the classic European Hornbeam, this cultivar traces its roots to Belgium and carries a legacy of elegance suited to both formal gardens and modern yards.