Species

Fagus sylvaticaEuropean Beech

7 other cultivars

tree RHS Award

Purple Sawtooth European Beech

Fagus sylvatica 'Rohanii'

The Story

Plant Bio

Fagus sylvatica, the European Beech, is a large, stately deciduous tree prized for its smooth, silver-gray bark and dense, spreading canopy.

'Rohanii' is a distinctive cultivar featuring deep purple, wavy-margined leaves that resemble those of an oak, turning a coppery-bronze in autumn.

Uses & Benefits:

'Rohanii' is a magnificent specimen tree, providing multi-season interest with its unique purple, oak-like foliage, smooth gray bark, and elegant structure. Its dramatic color makes it a powerful focal point in any large garden or park setting.

Once established, its dense canopy provides substantial cooling shade in summer. The strong wood has historically been used for furniture, flooring, and firewood, though this cultivar is grown primarily for ornament.

The tree produces small, edible nuts (beechmast) that are a valuable food source for birds and mammals like squirrels and chipmunks. Its dense branching provides shelter and nesting sites for birds.

SpeciesFagus sylvaticaEuropean Beech

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

480 inches

Width

300 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7

Water

Medium

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Very long-lived, over 150 years

Native To

Europe

Toxicity

Nuts are mildly toxic if ingested in large quantities

Bloom period

Mid-spring

In flower about 1 month of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Choose a location with well-drained soil and ample space to grow.
Dig a hole two to three times wider than the root ball.
Position the tree so the root flare is level with the ground.
Backfill the hole with the original soil, watering to settle.
Water deeply and regularly during the first few years to establish.
Apply a 3-inch layer of mulch, avoiding contact with the trunk.

Pro Tip

Provide consistent moisture and protect from harsh afternoon sun in hotter climates to prevent leaf scorch on the dark foliage.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly, especially during dry spells, as beech has shallow roots.
Protect the thin bark from mechanical damage (e.g., mowers, string trimmers).
Allow lower branches to remain for several years to build trunk caliper.

Don't

Do not plant in poorly drained or compacted soil.
Avoid heavy pruning, as it can ruin the natural form.
Never carve into the smooth bark, as it invites disease.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Mulch
Pest Check
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Stunning specimen tree for large landscapesDramatic foliage contrast in mixed bordersElegant shade tree for parks and estates

Companion Plants

Hosta sieboldiana 'Elegans'Geranium macrorrhizum Galanthus nivalis Hakonechloa macra 'Aureola'Epimedium x rubrum

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Purple Sawtooth European Beech questions

What zones can Purple Sawtooth European Beech grow in?

Purple Sawtooth European Beech is hardy in USDA Zones 5–7. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Purple Sawtooth European Beech deer resistant?

Yes — Purple Sawtooth European Beech is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Purple Sawtooth European Beech bloom?

Purple Sawtooth European Beech typically blooms in mid-spring through mid-spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Purple Sawtooth European Beech need full sun?

Purple Sawtooth European Beech does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.