Fagus sylvatica Atropunicea - Copper Beech

Copper Beech

Grown as a Tree

Given enough space and time, Fagus sylvatica Atropunicea, the European Purple or Copper Beech, is a large broadleaf tree that will grow into a magnificent specimen. Left to grow freely, Fagus sylvatica Atropunicea will form a broad oval crown which will eventually reach anything from 60-100 feet (20-30m) given the right conditions. The leaves open wine-coloured and mature to deep purple by mid-summer, then turn coppery red in autumn. This is also the time for production of beechnuts or mast, which provide a feast for wildlife and was traditionally used for fattening free-range pigs. Makes excellent timber for carpentry and firewood.

Grown as Hedging

Copper Beech makes an excellent hedge , its foliage turns copper-red in autumn and when clipped as a hedge, it will usually hold the dry, straw-colored leaves throughout the Winter, so even being deciduous, it will still provide good privacy and screening.

Site: Requires some shelter
Soil: Any good well-drained soil
Position: Full sun or partial shade
Season of Interest: Fresh purple foliage in Spring, brown leaves on hedges in Winter
Hardiness: Hardy
Height: 80-115ft (25-35m) Spread: 40ft (12m) if unpruned
Hedging Spacings: 1ft (30cm) for hedges up to 4ft. Space 18in to 2ft (45-60cm) apart for hedges 4ft+