Purple Beech (Fagus sylvatica ‘Purpurea’)
Identifying Features
Plant Family: Fagaceae
Leaf: deciduous, alternate, simple with wavy edge
Twig and Bud: buds long, brown, sharply-pointed
Flower, Fruit and Seed: triangular nut inside prickly husk
Bark: smooth and gray
Shape and Mature Height: pyramidal or oval, grows to 50-60 feet tall
Garden Value and Considerations
Purple beech is also referred to as copper beech due to the color of its fall foliage. Plant in full sun.
Notes
Beechnuts are edible and provide an important food source for wildlife.
