European Beech
(Common Beech)
Fagus Sylvatica
A large, long-lived, native tree of Europe. Low, large branching and dense canopy casting deep shade. Attractive smooth, silvery-gray bark and leaves that stay on the tree into the winter. It is frequently used for hedging in its homeland due to its tolerance of heavy pruning and leaf retention. Wind pollinated male and female flowers are on the same tree. Seeds are edible but competition is stiff with squirrels that eat them in the canopy before they fall. Easier to transplant than the closely related native American Beech and does not suffer the beech bark canker disease.
Additional information
| Foliage | Deciduous |
|---|---|
| Locale | Native to Europe |
| Height | Large (60-100ft) |
| Width | Wide |
| Form | Oval |
| Growth Rate | Slow |
| Longevity | Long (over 100 years) |
| Hardiness Zones * | 4, 5 |
| Sun Exposure | Full Sun (over 6 hrs), Mostly Shade (slow growth), Partial Sun (4 to 6 hrs) |
| Soil Preferences * | Moist, Slightly Acidic, Well Draining |
| Soil Tolerances | Slightly Alkaline |
| Ornamental Interest | Bark |
| Wildlife Value | Birds (fruits/seeds), Large Mammals (fruits/seeds), Small Mammals (fruits/seeds) |
| Human Value | Carpentry (wood), Edible (seed), Fuel (wood) |
| Seed Collection | Relatives in UK |
| Planting Considerations | Casts Deep Shade, Intolerant of Drought, Intolerant of Road Salt, Intolerant of Soil Compaction |
