Fagus sylvatica 'Aurea Pendula'

RHS Plant Profile
beech 'Aurea Pendula'
Trees

Slow-growing, large, graceful tree with a weeping habit and large, oval leaves which emerge golden-yellow in the spring, maturing to yellow-green in summer and then to copper-yellow in autumn. Inconspicuous flower catkins are followed by spiny fruits. A suitable tree for large parks and woodland gardens

Position

Partial shade

Soil Types

Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand

Max Height

4-8 metres

Max Spread

2.5-4 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
20–50 years
Max Spread
2.5-4 metres
Max Height
4-8 metres

Growing Conditions

Chalk Clay Loam Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained or Well–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or North–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H6

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Fagaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Pendulous weeping
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

Grows well in moist but well drained soil in dappled shade. Very prone to leaf scorch in midsummer if planted in a hot, sunny position. See beech cultivation

Propagation

Propagate by seed or 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