Fastigiate

Fastigiate is a term used in botany and horticulture to describe a plant growth habit characterized by an upright, columnar, or narrow, broom-like form. Plants with a fastigiate habit grow with their branches held closely together, parallel to the main stem, creating a tall and slender silhouette. This growth pattern is often in contrast to a more spreading or rounded form.

The term "fastigiate" comes from the Latin word "fastigare," meaning "to make a ridge" or "to reach a peak." This aptly describes the visual effect of these plants, which often appear to reach towards the sky with a compact structure. Fastigiate varieties are frequently selected for their ornamental value in landscaping, particularly in situations where space is limited or a strong vertical accent is desired. They can be used as focal points, as part of hedges, or to create screening without taking up excessive horizontal space.

Many tree and shrub species have fastigiate cultivars. Examples include fastigiate oaks (Quercus robur 'Fastigiata'), Lombardy poplars (Populus nigra 'Italica'), and certain varieties of juniper and yew. The intensity of the fastigiate habit can vary; some plants are strictly columnar, while others are more loosely upright with a somewhat spreading tendency. This growth habit is often a result of natural mutation or selective breeding.