Carpinus betulus ‘Monument’ – Niwaki (Monument)

A lovely, dwarf, slow growing form of this deciduous tree. Over 20 years it could grow to 4 or 5metres in height with a narrow oval head. The summer foliage is mid green turning a bright buttery yellow in the autumn.

Easy and undemanding, it will grow in full sun to partial shade, on any soil, and any aspect. It does like consistently moist but well drained soil and should not be allowed to dry out. Good in urban conditions.

N.B. When clipping several plants with the same tool, have a bucket containing a 5% bleach solution and swish your blades around for 30 seconds between plants to sterilise them. This will help avoid the chance of cross contamination of disease.

As with all woody plants, plant high, exposing as much of the taper at the base of the trunk as possible. Allowing soil to accumulate round the base of a tree can be fatal. Keep very well watered when first planted.