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Beech Tree
European Beech Scientific name: Fagus silvatica. A tall, clonally reproducing tree with long, horizontal branches, ranging from 60 to 80 ft. tall, producing edible, triangular nuts. An important timber species used for cheap furniture, tool handles, and veneer. Also a popular ornamental tree but is susceptible to beech-bark disease, a fungus which infects the phloem. BUDS: End buds are long, slender, and pointed with many bud scales. The lateral buds are smaller, 2-ranked, and diverge at nearly right angles from the twig. TWIGS: Encircled by stipule scars at each leaf scar; true end bud. BARK: Very easily idenified. Light gray, smooth, and thin. Bark resembles elephant legs and is popular for carving initials. HABITAT: Mesic forests with well drained to somewhat poorly drained soils of a wide range of textures. Summary Foliage: Deciduous broadleaf Height: 50 to 60 feet Spread: 35 to 45 feet Shape: Spreading Fern-like summer foliage is a glossy, dark green. The bark is light gray and smooth. Plant Needs Zone: 4 to 7 Light: Partial shade to full sun Moisture: Wet, moist, or dry Soil Type: Sandy, loam, or clay pH Range: 3.7 to 6.5 Functions Suggested uses for this plant include specimen plant, hedge, and shade. Planting Notes Fibrous root system makes transplanting less of a problem than with American Beech. Select plants that have balled and burlapped roots. Plant in deep, rich, moist soil. Place in location where tree has plenty of room to spread. Care Beech is slow growing and
takes time to establish its root system. Water thoroughly once a week
during dry periods until established. Place hose at base of plant and
let water trickle into soil. [Fagus sylvatica 'Atropunicea'] [Fagus sylvatica 'Pendula']
Fagus sylvatica 'Atropunicea' G. Lumis Fagus sylvatica 'Pendula' G.
Lumis Cultivars of FAGUS SYLVATICA `Asplenifolia' (Cut Leaf
European Beech)
'Atropunicea' has purple foliage. "Fastigiata' (Columnar Beech) is a columnar form. Comments: Wonderful for use in public areas. Makes an excellent hedge because of its ability to withstand heavy pruning. Better adapted to Virginia growing conditions than the native American Beech. A slow grower - many years to produce good shade. Suitable to use for bonsai. American
Beech Hardiness Zones: 3 to 9
Comments This large tree is naturally low-branched with attractive glossy green leaves. In the fall, the leaves turn bronze but weather to a light tan color. Some leaves are held late into the winter if not blown off by the wind. The smooth gray bark is ornamental. The tree needs an acid soil and is difficult to transplant. Dense shade and low branching will wreak havoc on lawn grasses growing beneath the tree.
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G.Lumis
G.Lumis
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