Carpinus betulus Lucas (Upright Hornbeam)

“Carpinus betulus Lucas (European Hornbeam) is notable for its narrow, columnar shape. Its green leaves with a sharp-toothed edge turn a bright yellow in the autumn and remain through the winter, adding some winter interest. In early spring, attractive yellow or green catkins form. It will grow in any soil type but Carpinus betulus Lucas does not do well in a very acid soil. It does best in a moist but well-drained situation. Once established it is reasonably drought-tolerant. It can be planted in sun, partial or full shade. Able to resist wind, it will do well in either an exposed or sheltered location, and because it is tolerant of pollution, the European Hornbeam is well-suited to use in an urban landscape.
Carpinus betulus Lucas is also well-suited to container planting on a patio or rooftop terrace, grown either in a row to form a screen, or as a specimen plant for its tall, columnar shape. Because of the European Hornbeams resistance to pollution, and its narrow form, it is a good choice for an urban roadside planting.”