Columnar Oriental Beech

‘Iskander’ is a narrow, columnar selection of Oriental beech with upright branches and a dense crown. Its mature height is reported at 15–20 m, while the expected spread is much narrower at about 2–4 m. ## Form and seasonal interest Glossy green leaves provide a dense screen through the growing season and turn yellow in autumn. The tree is best used where its vertical form can mature without crowding buildings, paving, or neighboring trees; its eventual height suits large gardens and broad streets more than small yards. ## Siting Choose a site with deep, fertile, well-drained soil and good light. The exact cultivar profile describes a sturdy branch framework and a more heat-tolerant character than many European beech cultivars, while still requiring ample root space. Beech fruit is inconspicuous and becomes more noticeable as the tree matures. ## Maintenance Allow the columnar framework to develop naturally and use selective pruning only to remove damaged or crossing branches. Check available overhead and lateral clearance before planting because the reported height is substantial. See the [RHS profile for ‘Iskander’](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/254226/fagus-orientalis-iskander/details) and [Van den Berk’s cultivar profile](https://www.vdberk.com/trees/fagus-orientalis-iskander/) for its habit, mature size, foliage, and growing conditions.