Although named Copper Beech, it is also known as purple beech due to the glossy colour of its leaves. These wonderful trees are an integral part of the British landscape, parks and woodland. Grown for their habit, foliage and autumn colour which they keep (mostly) throughout the winter months. They have rather insignificant flowers which appear in late spring and their little nuts ripen in autumn. A fully hardy deciduous tree which prefers sun and will grow in most soils. The oval purple leaves turn a rich copper in autumn which gives it the distinct name and reputation. Suitable as an ornamental tree in any garden, parkland or part of native hedgerow.

The nuts are a good source of food for different wildlife and often home to birds and other small creatures. The Copper Beech is fully hardy, but does like the sun, and most soils. Height in maturity can be up to 18m, but easily pruned to be kept in shape, especially within hedging.

Soil: Most well drained soils. Prefers slightly acidic.

Position: Exposed

Fertility: Self fertile

Leaves: Purple

Habit: Round

Hardiness: Fully hardy

Height and Spread at Maturity: 18 metres x 13 metres

Special features: Makes a wonderful specimen tree. Attracts birds and insects.

Birthday Tree: Year round

Symbolism, Folklore & Old Wives Tales

Gender – Feminine

Planet – Saturn

Powers – Wishes.
Symbolism – Oracle and Divination, Prosperity and Pleasant Memory.
Magical Uses – Take a stick of beech, scratch or carve your wish onto it and bury it. Your wish will come true if it is to be.