Purple Fountain Beech Ornamental Tree (Fagus Sylvatica 'Purple Fountain')

Purple Fountain Beech Ornamental Tree Description

The Purple Fountain Beech is a striking deciduous ornamental tree renowned for its dramatic weeping habit and stunning foliage. This unique cultivar typically reaches a height of 3–5 metres (10–16 feet) and can spread 2–4 metres (6–13 feet) wide, making it an ideal choice for smaller gardens, ornamental borders, or as a focal point in more expansive landscapes. Its cascading branches and rich purple leaves provide exceptional visual interest throughout the seasons.

The Purple Fountain Beech features deep purple, almost burgundy leaves that emerge in spring, providing a vibrant contrast to the landscape. As the season progresses, the foliage retains its rich colour, creating a dramatic display against the backdrop of greenery. In autumn, the leaves turn to a warm coppery hue, adding a beautiful, seasonal touch. The tree's weeping branches create a layered effect, enhancing its graceful appearance.

In the spring, small, inconspicuous flowers appear, which are attractive to pollinators, although they are often overshadowed by the stunning foliage. The tree’s smooth, grey bark also adds to its visual appeal, especially during the winter months when the leaves have fallen.

Pruning Advice

Pruning is essential for maintaining the health and aesthetics of the Purple Fountain Beech. The best time to prune is during late winter or early spring, just before new growth begins. During this time, remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches to promote healthy growth and improve air circulation within the canopy.

To enhance its weeping form, light pruning can be performed during the growing season to shape the tree and control its size. However, avoid excessive pruning, as this can stress the tree and impact its natural beauty. Regular maintenance will help preserve the tree's graceful shape and enhance its ornamental qualities.

Further Information

Ornamental Value: The unique weeping form and striking purple foliage of the Purple Fountain Beech make it a standout feature in any landscape. Its graceful, cascading branches provide a dramatic focal point, suitable for both formal and informal gardens.

Wildlife Support: The tree's flowers attract various pollinators, including bees and butterflies. Its dense canopy offers shelter for birds and small wildlife, contributing to local biodiversity.

Adaptability: The Purple Fountain Beech is tolerant of various soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils, and prefers well-drained conditions. It thrives in both acidic and alkaline soils, making it a versatile choice for diverse planting environments.

Low Maintenance: Once established, the Purple Fountain Beech requires minimal maintenance. It is resistant to many pests and diseases, making it a reliable choice for urban and suburban gardens.

Delivery & Returns

Free delivery is available on most orders (except Premium Products) providing they meet the minimum spend criteria for the size of box or pallet. Pallet deliveries and large box deliveries for tall plants are indicated by icons on the product table listings. Delivery costs and minimum order details for each packaging type are as follows:

* Standard Sized Boxes (Bare root up to 1.2m tall & pots up to 7.5L) | Free UK Mainland Delivery for orders over £250 | or £9.98 charge.

* Tall Sized Boxes (Bare roots 1.2m & over) | Free UK Mainland Delivery for orders over £250 | or £24.99 charge.

* Pallets (Root balls, large pots 10L+, trees etc | Free UK Mainland Delivery for orders over £350 | or £82 charge.

* Pleached Trees (Specialist Delivery) | Free UK Mainland Delivery for orders over £1500 | or £450 charge.