The Frans Fontaine hornbeam (Carpinus betulus ‘Frans Fontaine’) is a popular columnar tree valued for its interesting foliage mature size, and versatility in the landscape. This cultivar of the European hornbeam grows in a narrow upright shape, making it well-suited for use as a vertical accent street tree, hedge, or screen.
If you’re looking to add a Frans Fontaine hornbeam to your yard or garden, you may be wondering where you can find one for sale. Here’s an overview of some of the best places to purchase these unique trees:
Local Nurseries and Garden Centers
One of the best places to find Frans Fontaine hornbeams for sale is at a local, independent nursery or garden center in your area. Reputable local nurseries often carry a great selection of trees and shrubs, including more uncommon varieties like this one.
The benefit of shopping at a local nursery is that you can see the trees in person before purchasing This allows you to pick out a healthy, high-quality specimen with a good shape and form You can also get advice from the nursery staff on selecting, planting, and caring for a Frans Fontaine hornbeam.
Some top local nurseries to check for availability include
- Oakland Nurseries (Ohio)
- Pleasant Run Nursery (New Jersey)
- [Other regional nurseries in your area]
Call or visit your local nurseries to ask about hornbeam availability and pricing. Trees sold in #5 containers usually cost $100-300 depending on size.
Online Nurseries
If you’re unable to find a Frans Fontaine hornbeam at a nearby nursery, purchasing one online is another option. Reputable online nurseries ship trees nationwide, allowing you to get the exact tree you want.
When ordering trees online, look for sellers who stake and properly package their trees to prevent damage during shipping. Try to order early in the season before inventory sells out.
Some recommended online nurseries to check for Frans Fontaine hornbeam include:
- Nature Hills Nursery
- Brighter Blooms
- Fast Growing Trees
- TreeHelp
Expect to pay $150-350 for a container-grown Frans Fontaine hornbeam shipped to your home. Factor in shipping costs on top of the tree price.
Tree Farms or Wholesale Growers
For large quantities or bulk pricing on hornbeams, consider purchasing directly from a tree farm or wholesale grower. These businesses grow trees in high volumes to supply nurseries and landscapers.
Purchasing wholesale Hornbeams can get you discounted pricing, but may require a bulk minimum order. It’s best for large planting projects.
Some wholesale growers to contact include:
- Hidden Springs Nursery (Tennessee)
- Lawyer Nursery (North Carolina)
- [Regional wholesale nurseries]
Expect to pay $100-250 per tree when purchasing in bulk quantities of 10+. Factor in pickup or delivery costs.
Order Early for the Best Selection
Keep in mind that Frans Fontaine hornbeam is a specialty variety that might sell out quickly during peak planting seasons. For the best selection, start your search early in the year and call to confirm availability with the seller.
Ordering your tree in late winter or early spring will ensure you get first pick of healthy trees ready for the current growing season. Avoid ordering late in the year when inventory might be sold out.
No matter where you choose to purchase from, be sure to inspect any tree carefully before buying. Look for signs of good health without dead wood or excessive pruning. With proper care after planting, a Frans Fontaine hornbeam will make a dramatic vertical statement in your landscape for years to come.
Carpinus betulus ‘Frans Fontaine’ Frans Fontaine European Hornbeam
The handsome beech-look-alike hornbeams make a fine large hedge, especially this VERY select variety with its VERY narrow (to only 15 wide x 35 high) dense (thus slow growing) habit. Sun-PSh/Med
What in the world is a European Hornbeam? | Plant Spotlight
FAQ
How fast do Frans Fontaine hornbeams grow?
It grows at a slow rate, and under ideal conditions can be expected to live to a ripe old age of 120 years or more; think of this as a heritage tree for future generations! This tree does best in full sun to partial shade. It prefers to grow in average to moist conditions, and shouldn’t be allowed to dry out.
How far apart to plant Frans Fontaine Hornbeam?
We recommend spacing these trees 10 – 20′ apart to ensure room for growth.Oct 17, 2023
What are the cons of hornbeam?
The tree is difficult to transplant and is slow to establish. The hop hornbeam is a small- to medium-sized understory tree with a generally rounded crown.
How big do Carpinus betulus frans fontaine get?
| Botanical Name: | Carpinus betulus ‘Frans Fontaine’ |
|---|---|
| Size Range: | Small Tree (15-25 feet) |
| Mature Height: | 30′ |
| Mature Spread: | 10′ |
| Shape: | Columnar |