Beech, EuropeanFagus sylvatica
The European Beech is a beautiful tree year-round. The leaves are a shimmering green when unfolding, turning to a dark green in summer. Lustrous rich russet brown and golden bronze in fall. Dense, upright, oval form. Prefers moist, well-drained soil and full sun. Grows 50'-60' with a 40' spread. (Zones 4-7)
Zones 4 - 7
The European Beech can be expected to grow in the zones shown in color in the arborday.org zone map. (see map below)
Ornamental Tree
The European Beech falls into the following type(s): Ornamental Trees, Shade Trees
50' - 60' High
The European Beech grows to be 50' - 60' feet in height.
35' - 45' Spread
The European Beech has a spread of about 35' - 45' at full maturity.
Slow to Medium Growth
This tree grows at a slow to medium growth rate. [More about this.]
Full Sun
This beech does well in full sun.
Various Soils
The European Beech grows in acidic, loamy, moist, sandy, well drained, clay soils.
Oval Shape
This beech has oval shape.
More Info
The European Beech can be expected to grow in the zones shown on this map.
Attributes:
Described by many experts as the finest specimen tree available, the European Beech tree will reward the owners of large properties who plant them with year 'round beauty. The trunk is particularly handsome and the copper colored autumn leaves are unmatched for their beauty.
Description:
The European Beech is a beautiful tree year-round. The leaves are a shimmering green when unfolding, turning to a dark green in summer. Lustrous rich russet brown and golden bronze in fall. Dense, upright, oval form. Prefers moist, well-drained soil and full sun. Grows 50'-60' with a 40' spread. (Zones 4-7)
Wildlife Value:
Beechnuts are eaten by birds and mammals and are important food for chipmunks and squirrels.
History/Lore/Use:
The European Beech tree has an unmatched place in history. The Beech nuts were food for prehistoric man and are still consumed today. The wood has been employed for centuries for both fire and furniture in Europe. Historians claim that the first written European literature was inscribed on Beech bark in Sanskrit. The English word 'book" comes from the Anglo-Saxon "boc", a derivative for the Anglo-Saxon "beece" or Beech.
Moisture:
This tree prefers moist, well-drained soil, but has some drought tolerance.
Leaves:
This tree has alternate leaves, simple 3 to 5 inches long, light green, copper color in autumn.
Flower Color:
Light brown and pale.
Bloom Time:
April-May.
Fruit Description:
Oval, 1/2 to 1 inch, dry, brown, edible.