Fagus sylvatica 'Purpurea' (European Beech)

Fagus sylvatica 'Purpurea' (European Beech) Details

“Purpurea” is a variety of European Beech that grows as a stately, deciduous tree with a broad and spreading crown of colourful, purple foliage. The glossy leaves emerge deep purple in spring, age to purple-green in summer, then turn develop copper tones in autumn before falling. Small, green flowers in spring are followed by bristly fruits in autumn. Left untrimmed it will grow to about 25 m tall and 18 m wide, performing best when planted in full sun or partial shade on a well-drained site. It is tolerant of frost, cool climates, dry periods, and moderate wind though shelter when young will produce a better formed tree. “Purpurea” makes for a lovely specimen with mature specimens making a dramatic statement in the landscape and providing great summer shade. It is also commonly used for avenue planting, trimmed into a hedge, used for screening, or added to a mixed planting in a large garden.