Purple Beech (fagus sylvatica atropurpurea)

• Striking ornamental cultivar of common beech with deep purple foliage emerging reddish in spring, darkening to purple-green in summer, and turning coppery-bronze in autumn.
• Retains dried leaves through winter (especially on hedges), providing year-round screening and semi-evergreen appeal.
• Excellent for formal hedging – dense, responds well to clipping; also superb as dramatic specimen trees in large gardens or parks.
• Supports wildlife: beech mast (nuts) feeds birds and mammals; the leaves host moth caterpillars.
• Tolerant of chalky soils, wind, and urban pollution; long-lived (up to 300+ years).

Planting Guide

• Best time: Bare-root November–March (dormant season); container-grown autumn or spring.
• Location: Full sun for deepest purple colour (partial shade tolerated but colour fades); deep, well-drained soil (dislikes waterlogged or very heavy wet sites); requires ample space – matures to 30–40m tall/wide, unsuitable for small gardens.
• Preparation: Dig a large hole twice the root width; incorporate organic matter in poor or shallow soils.
• Planting: Set at original depth (check trunk soil mark); stake young trees in exposed sites; firm in and water, mulch base to contol weeds and preserve moisture (keep clear of trunk).
• Aftercare: Water regularly first few years during dry spells; minimal pruning (winter for trees, summer/autumn for hedges); protect young trees from rabbits, deer and strimmers; low-maintenance once established.