tree

Red Obelisk Beech

Name: Red Obelisk Beech
Brand: Fagus
Availability: InStock

Fagus sylvatica 'Red Obelisk'

$34.50

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

480 inches

Width

120 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Very long-lived, 150+ years

Native To

Europe

Toxicity

Nuts are mildly toxic if eaten in large quantities

The Story

Plant Bio

Fagus sylvatica, the European Beech, is a large, majestic deciduous tree known for its smooth, silver-gray bark and beautiful foliage. It is a dominant tree in many European forests. 'Red Obelisk' is a narrow, columnar to fastigiate cultivar with deep purple-red, wavy-edged leaves. It provides strong vertical interest and rich color without the massive spread of the species.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

This tree is a living sculpture, providing powerful vertical lines and rich, season-long color. The smooth gray bark adds significant winter appeal, creating a striking contrast with snow.

Its narrow footprint makes it an excellent choice for creating a formal screen or allee in areas where space is limited. It can add height and drama to a garden without casting excessive shade.

Beech trees produce nuts (mast) that are a valuable food source for wildlife, including squirrels, chipmunks, and birds like blue jays. The dense canopy provides nesting sites.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

Dancing Oaks

<1 Gal Pot

In Stock$34.50

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Planting

How to Grow

Select a site with full sun for best color, in well-drained soil.
Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball but no deeper.
Gently place the tree in the hole, ensuring the root flare is visible.
Backfill with native soil, watering partway to settle.
Finish backfilling and create a small water-retaining berm.
Water thoroughly and apply a layer of organic mulch.

Pro Tip

Beech trees have shallow roots; avoid underplanting and soil compaction within the drip line to ensure long-term health.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide consistent moisture, but do not overwater.
Protect the smooth bark from mechanical damage (e.g., string trimmers).
Mulch the root zone to maintain cool, moist soil.
Allow the tree to develop its natural form with minimal pruning.

Don't

Do not plant in heavy, wet, compacted clay soil.
Avoid planting in hot, dry, exposed sites.
Never pile mulch against the trunk.
Do not fertilize unless a soil test indicates a deficiency.

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Dramatic vertical accent in formal landscapesStately screen for narrow side yardsArchitectural specimen for color and form

Companion Plants

Epimedium x rubrum Helleborus orientalis Galanthus nivalis Hakonechloa macra 'Aureola' Tiarella cordifolia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Red Obelisk Beech questions

What zones can Red Obelisk Beech grow in?

Red Obelisk Beech is hardy in USDA Zones 4–7. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Red Obelisk Beech deer resistant?

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

When does Red Obelisk Beech bloom?

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

Does Red Obelisk Beech need full sun?

Red Obelisk Beech does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.