Carpinus betulus ‘Frans Fontaine’ (Frans Fontaine)

Good news for those wanting an impressive specimen tree that won’t cast acres of shade or take up much lateral space. Deciduous and extremely hardy, Hornbeams (for that’s what a Carpinus is) are an excellent choice for urban gardens or new builds with terrible soil. Bombproof once established. Their resilience doesn't make them any less refined though and ‘Frans Fontaine’ is a lovely tree with deeply corrugated fresh green leaves that ombre into glorious gold and orange in the autumn. Typically the leaves remain on the delicate upswept branches right through the winter, too, especially in sheltered spots. They go all crackly and crinkly and gingerbread-coloured, the whole effect from a distance is rather like one of those crystalised drumsticks of brown-sugar that come with your coffee in posh cafes. An avenue of these trees would look tremendous as each specimen can be relied upon to grow uniformly for a wonderful, effortless repetition. Also essential where an impactful upright whoosh is required as a focal point, or to emphasise the corners of a formal design. If you planted a few in a line you’d get a hedge.