Fagus sylvatica Riversii (European Beech)

Fagus sylvatica ‘Riversii’ (European Beech) is a magnificent, deciduous tree adorned with a dense, broad crown. The foliage of large, broadly elliptic, lustrous leaves, up to 5 in. long (12 cm), emerges deep purple in spring, fades to purple green in summer, before turning copper in the fall.

Fagus sylvatica 'Riversii' (European Beech) is a magnificent, deciduous tree adorned with a dense, broad crown. The foliage of large, broadly elliptic, lustrous leaves, up to 5 in. long (12 cm), emerges deep purple in spring, fades to purple green in summer, before turning copper in the fall. The smooth, pale gray bark is truly stunning in the winter landscape. In mid-late spring, small, inconspicuous, yellow-green flowers are on display. They are followed by bristly fruits which ripen in the fall. This purple-leaved European Beech makes a striking and beautiful specimen tree.

  • Recipient of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society.
  • Grows up to 50-60 ft. tall (15-18 m) and 40-50 ft. wide (12-15 m)
  • A full sun or part shade lover, this plant is easily grown in deep, rich, moist, well-drained soils. Intolerant of wet, poorly drained soils.
  • Perfect as a specimen plant or for hedges or screens.
  • Low maintenance, this beautiful tree is not subject to serious insect or disease issues. Watch for aphids, Japanese beetles, caterpillars, Beech scale, coral spot and heart and root rot in mature trees. Deer resistant.
  • Propagate by seed or grafting. Difficult to transplant
  • Native to Central and Southern Europe

Requirements

Hardiness 4
– 7

Heat Zones 4
– 9

Climate Zones 2, 2B, 3, 3A, 3B, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, A3
Plant Type Trees
Plant Family Fagus – Beeches
Exposure Full Sun, Partial Sun
Season of Interest Spring (Mid,Late)Summer (Early,Mid,Late)FallWinter
Height 50'
– 60'
(15m
– 18m)
Spread 40'
– 50'
(12m
– 15m)
Water Needs Average
Maintenance Low
Soil Type Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil Drainage Moist but Well-Drained, Well-Drained
Characteristics Plant of Merit, Showy, Fruit & Berries
Tolerance Deer
Garden Uses Hedges and Screens