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Fagus grandifolia - American Beech
Much less common in commerce than the European Beech, the American Beech is, however, no less distinguished than its overseas cousin. Native to large parts of eastern North America, it cannot be missed in woodlands in fall and winter with its silvery gray bark and golden-bronze leaves, which are generally retained well into winter. In spring the leaves emerge silvery green before maturing to dark green in summer. It grows slowly but steadily in moist but well-drained acid soil in sun or shade, and, in fact, some shade is beneficial when young. After many years it will become a noble and imposing shade tree. Z. 4-9
European Beeches - Fagus sylvatica
One of the world_s premier shade trees. Lustrous leaves_dark green, purple, or golden yellow, depending on the selection_clothe this tree on branches that often sweep the ground. In fall the foliage often turns rich russet or bronze. The smooth gray bark, often compared to elephant hide, becomes ridged and furrowed with age, and in winter the slender brown leaf buds are a prominent feature. When planted as specimens, Beeches should be allowed plenty of room for expansion as many of them become quite sizable. (Some of our narrower forms are an exception.) Provide well-drained, acid soil and some shade in hot-summer areas. Z. 4-8
Fagus sylvatica 'Dawyck Gold' - Golden European Beech
A narrow columnar form of European Beech, but with golden-yellow leaves. Leaves hold their color until midsummer when they become a pale chartreuse, but they turn bright gold again in fall. A striking form in the landscape. Z. 5-7(8)
Fagus sylvatica 'Pendula' - Weeping European Beech
The branches of this distinguished selection hang at various angles, often like arms, forming a wide skirt that can eventually touch the ground. It will grow in any well-drained soil, and a little afternoon shade will be of benefit while young. Z. 4-7(8)
Fagus sylvatica 'Purple Fountain' - Weeping Purple Beech
'Purple Fountain' is an upright-growing small weeping Beech that forms a central leader from which branches, full of purple leaves, cascade down. The leaves fade to purple-green in summer. Stake while young to help establish the leader. May grow to 12-20 feet high and 3-6 feet wide at the base. Z. 5-7(8)
