Columnar English Oak
Columnar English Oak (Quercus robur 'Fastigiata')
Columnar English Oak (Quercus robur 'Fastigiata'), also known as Upright English Oak, is a narrow, vertical-growing deciduous tree known for its stately silhouette and refined branching. A cultivated form of the European native English Oak, this selection is ideal for formal landscapes, tight spaces, and architectural plantings where space is limited but height and structure are desired.
Distinctive Features
This cultivar typically reaches 40 to 60 feet in height with a narrow spread of only 10 to 15 feet. It forms a strong central leader with upright, ascending branches that maintain a columnar shape even at maturity. The dark green, lobed leaves are classic oak in appearance and turn yellow to bronze in fall. Acorns are borne in small quantities and mature in one season. Bark is gray-brown and develops shallow furrows with age, adding textural interest throughout the year.
Growing Conditions
- Sun Exposure: Full sun
- Soil Type: Well-drained loam or clay; tolerates urban soils
- Soil pH: Slightly acidic to alkaline
- Water Needs: Moderate; drought-tolerant once established
- USDA Hardiness Zones: 5 to 8
Ideal Uses
- Focal point for narrow gardens or city courtyards
- Formal all�es or driveway framing
- Street tree in medians or parkways with limited space
- Architectural plantings around buildings or campuses
- Privacy screen or vertical accent in landscape design
Low Maintenance Care
- Minimal pruning required to maintain shape
- Water during establishment; drought-tolerant once mature
- Mulch to protect shallow roots and conserve moisture
- Tolerates pollution and compacted soils in urban environments
- Monitor for powdery mildew and oak-specific pests in humid climates
Why Choose Columnar English Oak
- Strong vertical structure for space-limited sites
- Classic oak foliage and texture in a compact form
- Ideal for formal, architectural, or symmetrical plantings
- Tolerant of a range of soils and urban conditions
- A striking focal point for narrow landscapes and tight corridors
Columnar English Oak delivers timeless beauty, upright structure, and reliable performance�making it an ideal focal point for designers and homeowners looking to add vertical elegance to constrained spaces.
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