About
Slow-growing, large, graceful tree with a weeping habit and large, oval leaves which emerge golden-yellow in the spring, maturing to yellow-green in summer and then to copper-yellow in autumn. A suitable tree for large parks and woodland gardens. Inconspicuous flower catkins are followed by spiny fruits.
About the genus
Fagus are large deciduous trees with smooth grey bark, ovate leaves colouring well in autumn, and inconspicuous flowers followed by usually spiny fruits
Growing conditions
SunlightPartial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeTrees
HabitPendulous weeping
FoliageDeciduous
Height4-8 metres
Spread2.5-4 metres
Time to full height20-50 years
Suggested usesArchitectural, Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens
ToxicityPets (dogs): Harmful if eaten. For further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
Care notes
CultivationGrows well in moist but well drained soil in dappled shade. Very prone to leaf scorch in midsummer if planted in a hot, sunny position. See beech cultivation
PruningPruning group 1
PropagationPropagate by seed or grafting
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to aphids and beech bark scale
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to beech bark disease, fungi (particulary bracket fungi) and powdery mildews. Sometimes susceptible to honey fungus