The common oak, Quercus robur, is a huge tree with a wide, impressive crown and mighty trunk. Plant of the week: Quercus robur ‘Fastigiate Koster’ on the other hand has a closed, columnar shape, which makes it very suitable for the urban landscape such narrow avenues and streets. Also, as can be seen here, its slender shape allows it to be planted close to buildings.
Quercus robur ‘Fastigiate Koster’ is also known as Cypress oak, or Pyramid oak and can reach a height of around 20-25m after 50 odd years. Maximum width is about 3-4m. It’s hardy up till USDA zone 2B. Where I am, in western Sweden, oak is planted in urban areas because it tolerates salt and wind well. It also puts up with pollution. Oak can be a bit tricky to get started, but is overall low maintenance and can be planted in most deep, fertile soils and is lime tolerant. In colder climates it should ideally be planted after mid-November or spring. It prefers a full sun or part shade location.
As can be seen in the photo below this particular Pyramid oak is planted rather close to an old building. Is that a problem? There is no visible damage as far as I can see and I’m sure the tree would have been removed if there was an issue. According to the Royal Horticultural Society most trees planted near buildings cause no damage. This applies particularly to modern buildings. Read the full assessment here. Another good source of aspects to consider when planting trees on home grounds can be found here.
