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Fagus sylvatica var. heterophylla 'Aspleniifolia'

fern-leaved beech

Large, deciduous tree with a broad, open crown. Ferny dark green leaves are variable, mostly long and narrow, cut deeply into several pairs of pointed lobes and turning orange-brown in autumn. Flowers small, green, followed by bristly fruits (nuts)

Other common names
cut-leaved beech
Synonyms
Fagus sylvatica f. laciniata 'Aspleniifolia'
Fagus sylvatica 'Aspleniifolia'

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Size
Ultimate height
Higher than 12 metres
Time to ultimate height
20–50 years
Ultimate spread
Wider than 8 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Clay
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green White Green Green
Summer Green White Green
Autumn Green White Red Yellow Pink
Winter Green White
Position
  • Full sun
  • Partial shade
Aspect

North–facing or South–facing or West–facing or East–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H6
Botanical details
Family
Fagaceae
Native to the UK
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Spreading branched
Potentially harmful
Pets (dogs): Harmful if eaten. For further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
Genus

Fagus are large deciduous trees with smooth grey bark, ovate leaves colouring well in autumn, and inconspicuous flowers followed by usually spiny fruits

Name status

Accepted

How to grow

Cultivation

Tolerant of a range of soils including chalk, grow in full sun or partial shade. For best colour, position in full sun. For more information see beech cultivation

Propagation

Propagate by grafting

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Architectural
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Hedging and screens
Pruning

Pruning group 1

Pests

May be susceptible to aphids and beech bark scale

Diseases

May be susceptible to beech bark disease, fungi (particulary bracket fungi) and powdery mildews. Sometimes susceptible to honey fungus

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