Area of origin:
Europe except for Portugal.
Adult Dimensions:
Height up to 30m (98.4'),
width up to 20m (65.6').
Foliage: Deciduous.
Soil Type: All.
Hardiness:
hardy to -20°C,
prefers a wet atmosphere.
Exposure:Shade to full sun.
Characteristics and Uses:
The foliage becomes bright yellow in autumn. Planted alone, in groups and in rows, this tree responds well to cutting and can be used to form a screening hedge. Bonsai enthusiasts use this species frequently. This is a very important tree in forestry. The wood is used in carpentry and cabinet making. The wood is also very combustible and is used to produce charcoal of an excellent quality. The edible fruits are called beechnuts, but can become toxic if eaten in quantity.
List of Beech:
Purple Beech (Fagus sylvatica purpurea), extremely decorative purple foliage.
Tricolor Beech (Fagus sylvatica 'Tricolor'), extremely beautiful variegated foliage, sought after by bonsai connoisseurs.