Beech (Fagus)
Beech
Beech is a native British tree that is ideal for creating hedges. It is deciduous but, when grown as a hedge, retains its dry leaves throughout winter, creating an all-year-round screen. Beech is tolerant of many soils, including chalk, although it doesn't like wet clays (where hornbeam may be a better bet). As a specimen tree, beech will reach an eventual height of 30ft+, but can be kept between 3-12ft if pruned as a hedge. It can be planted in single or staggered rows, and either solely as a beech hedge, or mixed with other native hedging plants such as hornbeam. We supply two popular varieties of beech:
This is the Beech that is seen most commonly in Britain. The wavy-margined leaves on green beech are, bright green when young, then turning a dark green in summer before reaching a beautiful medley of yellow and burnt orange in winter.
Purple Beech (Fagus sylvatica purpurea) One of the most dramatic and distinctive trees, purple (or copper) beech is identified by its rich, deep purple wavy-margined leaves, that take on a reddish tint in autumn. The leaves retain their best colour if planted in full sun.
Bundles of 25 or 10 plants are available below. For large quantities and local deliveries please contact us before purchase so we can ensure you are not overcharged on delivery. Smaller numbers of plants can only be purchased in person at the nursery.