European Beech

(Fagus sylvatica)

European Beech (Fagus sylvatica)

/

return to results
Previous Plant Next Plant

/

Fagus sylvatica image
scroll forward scroll backward
scroll forward scroll backward
Estimated Native Range
Species Map Help

Summary

Fagus sylvatica, commonly known as European Beech, is a deciduous tree native to the broadleaf woodlands of Europe and West Asia, often found in mixed forests and on fertile, well-drained soils. It is a large tree, capable of reaching heights of up to 50 meters (160 feet) with a trunk diameter of up to 3 meters (9.8 feet). A 10-year-old sapling will stand about 4 meters (13 feet) tall. European Beech has a typical lifespan of 150–200 years, though some specimens can live up to 300 years. In managed forest stands, trees are usually harvested at 80–120 years of age, with full maturity reached in approximately 30 years.

The European Beech is valued for its smooth, gray bark and lush, dense canopy of foliage that turns a rich copper in the fall, providing striking seasonal interest. Its ability to form a dense hedge when planted closely makes it suitable for privacy screens and windbreaks. The tree is also used for its durable and attractive wood. It is a popular ornamental tree in parks and large gardens, favored for its grandeur and relatively fast growth compared to the slower-growing American Beech (Fagus grandifolia). European Beech thrives in full sun to part shade and prefers moist, well-drained soils, but it is adaptable to a range of soil conditions. It is less tolerant of urban pollution than some other tree species and can suffer from beech bark disease, which is caused by a combination of a scale insect and a fungus.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Tree
  • Height: 40-60 feet
  • Width: 40-60 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Slow, Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Fire Resistant, Hedges, Rabbit Resistant, Rock Garden

Natural Habitat

Broadleaf woodlands of Europe and West Asia

Other Names

Common Names: Common Beech, Beech, Bøg, Rotbuche, Euroopanpyökki, Hêtre, Fayard, Hêtre Commun, Hêtre Européen, Bøk

Scientific Names: , Fagus sylvatica, Fagus sylvatica f. purpurea, Fagus sylvatica f. pendula, Fagus sylvatica var. purpurea, Fagus sylvatica var. pendula, Fagus sylvatica subsp. pendula, Fagus sylvatica var. tortuosa, Fagus purpurea, Fagus cuprea

GBIF Accepted Name: Fagus sylvatica L.