A stately columnar selection, Frans Fontaine European Hornbeam is a large long-lived tree that maintains its narrow form into maturity. The glossy green leaves turn gold in the fall, and the smooth gray bark adds to its handsome appearance. A slow grower, it does best in average to moist conditions and should not be allowed to dry out. However, it is adaptable to a range of soil types and is highly tolerant of urban pollution. An excellent choice for inner city environments that need a large screen in narrow areas, or as a street tree.