Rising Fire® Columnar American Hornbeam

Rising Fire® is a vigorous, narrow selection of American hornbeam with a distinct columnar shape and bright red-to-orange fall foliage. Its compact footprint suits street plantings and tighter garden spaces where a native tree can provide vertical structure. ## Cultivar traits The breeder, [J. Frank Schmidt & Son](https://jfschmidt.com/all-trees/introductions/rising-fire-american-hornbeam/), identifies the selection as ‘Uxbridge’ and lists USDA zone 4, 30 feet tall by 15 feet wide, an upright narrow form, medium green foliage, and red-to-orange autumn color. [Utah State University’s Varga Arboretum profile](https://extension.usu.edu/botanicalcenter/trees-of-varga-arboretum/rising-fire-american-hornbeam) confirms the cultivar identity, the same mature dimensions and zone, fast growth, moderate water use, and adaptable soil tolerance. ## Siting Provide sun or partial shade and room for the tree’s narrow crown. American hornbeam is a North American native; this selection’s muscular gray bark and fall color extend its interest beyond the growing season. Water through establishment and during prolonged dry weather. ## Maintenance Preserve its upright framework and prune only to remove damaged branches or maintain needed clearance. Adjust watering to rainfall once established.