Trees and shrubs with this form have an unusually narrow, upright profile because their lateral branches point vertically rather than spreading outward. Horticulturists select these columnar varieties for tight urban spaces, formal gardens, or windbreaks where horizontal spread must be restricted. The tight branch angles can sometimes make the structure vulnerable to splitting under heavy snow loads.
We need a row of fastigiate hornbeams along the driveway so they don't block the delivery trucks.
When pruning fastigiate trees, avoid cutting the central leader, as this can ruin the natural columnar shape and force messy outward growth.
Related terms
Windbreak
A line of trees or fencing placed to protect crops and soil from high winds.
Cultigen
A plant species or variety that exists solely because of human selection and breeding.
Prune
The selective removal of branches, buds or roots from a plant.
Pollard
A pruning method where a tree's upper branches are cut back to the trunk.