Fagus sylvatica (Atropurpurea Group) 'Purpurea Pendula'

RHS Plant Profile
beech 'Purpurea Pendula'
Trees

Classic weeping, mushroom-shaped, deciduous tree about 3m in height, often grown as a top-worked specimen, producing wavy-edged, dark purple foliage which turns to reddish-brown in the autumn. Insignificant yellow-green flowers are produced in the spring followed by spiny fruits in the autumn

Position

Full sun, Partial shade

Soil Types

Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand

Max Height

2.5-4 metres

Max Spread

2.5-4 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
10–20 years
Max Spread
2.5-4 metres
Max Height
2.5-4 metres

Growing Conditions

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

Position

Full sun Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or North–facing or South–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

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 in midwinter

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Architectural
  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Wildlife gardens

Pruning

Pruning group 1

Pests

May be susceptible to aphids and scale insects

Diseases

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