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Description
Fagus Sylvatica Purple Fountain, also known as Purple Weeping Beech, is a deciduous tree with a unique and attractive appearance that makes it an excellent choice for landscaping. It is a cultivar of the European Beech tree (Fagus sylvatica) and is popular for its beautiful purple foliage and pendulous branches that create a weeping effect. This tree is a slow-growing variety and can reach a height of up to 30 feet with a spread of 20 feet.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fagales |
| Family | Fagaceae |
| Genus | Fagus |
Appearance
The leaves of Fagus Sylvatica Purple Fountain are oval-shaped and have a deep purple color that becomes more intense in the sun. In the fall, the leaves turn a golden brown before they fall off. The branches of this tree have a weeping habit, which gives it a graceful appearance. The tree produces small, inconspicuous flowers in the spring, followed by small, triangular nuts that are enclosed in prickly husks.
Care Guide
Fagus Sylvatica Purple Fountain is a relatively low-maintenance tree, but it still requires proper care to thrive. Here are some tips for caring for this tree:
- Water: Water the tree deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering during the winter.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the tree in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer.
- Soil: The tree prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The tree prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Fagus Sylvatica Purple Fountain is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 7.
Common Pests & Diseases
Fagus Sylvatica Purple Fountain is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can still be affected by some common issues. Here are some of the potential problems to watch out for:
- Aphids: These small insects can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Scales: These insects can be removed by hand or with insecticidal soap.
- Anthracnose: This fungal disease can cause leaf spots and twig dieback. It can be controlled with fungicide.
- Root rot: This disease is caused by overwatering and can be prevented by ensuring proper drainage.
Habitat
Fagus Sylvatica Purple Fountain is native to Europe, where it grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, woodlands, and hedgerows. It prefers well-drained soils and can tolerate a range of soil types, from sandy to clay. This tree is a popular choice for landscaping in urban and suburban areas because of its attractive appearance and low maintenance requirements.
Question and Answer
Q: How fast does Fagus Sylvatica Purple Fountain grow?
A: This tree is a slow grower and typically grows about 6 to 12 inches per year.
Q: Can Fagus Sylvatica Purple Fountain be grown in a container?
A: Yes, this tree can be grown in a container, but it will require regular watering and fertilization.
Q: Is Fagus Sylvatica Purple Fountain drought-tolerant?
A: This tree prefers moist soil and is not particularly drought-tolerant. It should be watered regularly during dry periods.
Q: When is the best time to prune Fagus Sylvatica Purple Fountain?
A: The best time to prune this tree is in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins.
Related Plants
- Fagus sylvatica
- Fagus sylvatica Dawyck Purple
- Fagus sylvatica Purpurea
References
- Dirr, M. A. (2009). Manual of woody landscape plants: Their identification, ornamental characteristics, culture, propagation and uses. Stipes Publishing.
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (2021). Fagus sylvatica ‘Purple Fountain’.
- RHS. (2021). Fagus sylvatica ‘Purple Fountain’.
