Bareroot Fagus sylvatica (Common Beech)

A majestic deciduous tree renowned for its smooth grey bark and dense canopy of oval leaves that transition from fresh green in spring to rich copper tones in autumn. Often maintained as a formal hedge, it retains its crisp, brown foliage throughout winter when clipped, providing year round screening and structure. The slow growing nature and tolerance of regular pruning make it ideal for creating elegant, high hedges or ornamental topiary. Thriving in well drained soils, it develops into a magnificent specimen tree when allowed to grow freely, with its broad crown offering valuable shade. A classic choice for stately gardens and formal landscapes, valued for both its beauty and versatility.

Family of Trees: Fagaceae

Habit: Deciduous Tree

Growth Rate: 30-60 cm/year

Optimal Temperature: 10-20°C, hardy to -25°C

Harmful if Eaten?: Nuts edible in small quantities

Flowers or Berries: Inconspicuous Flowers, Beech Nuts

Hardiness: H6 (Very Hardy)

Hardiness ratings

All ratings refer to the UK growing conditions unless otherwise stated. Minimum temperature ranges (in degrees C) are shown in brackets

○ H1a: under glass all year (>15C)
○ H1b: can be grown outside in the summer (10 - 15)
○ H1c: can be grown outside in the summer (5 - 10)
○ H2: tolerant of low temperatures, but not surviving being frozen (1 to 5)
○ H3: hardy in coastal and relatively mild parts of the UK (-5 to 1)
○ H4: hardy through most of the UK (-10 to -5)
○ H5: hardy in most places throughout the UK even in severe winters (-15 to -10)
○ H6: hardy in all of UK and northern Europe (-20 to -15)
○ H7: hardy in the severest European continental climates (< -20)