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Description
Fagus Sylvatica Rohanii, commonly known as the Purple European Beech, is a deciduous tree that belongs to the Fagaceae family. This variety of beech tree is native to Europe, specifically the Balkan Peninsula, and has been cultivated in gardens and parks throughout the world. The tree can grow up to 20 meters in height and can spread up to 12 meters in width. The bark is smooth and gray, while the leaves are a deep purple color in the spring and summer months, turning a golden-copper color in autumn.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fagales |
| Family | Fagaceae |
| Genus | Fagus |
Appearance
The Purple European Beech has a distinctive appearance due to its deep purple leaves. The leaves are oval-shaped and have a slightly serrated edge. In the autumn months, the leaves turn a golden-copper color, providing a beautiful contrast against the gray bark. The tree also produces small, prickly seed capsules in the autumn, which can be used to propagate new trees.
Care Guide
The Purple European Beech is a relatively low maintenance tree, but it does require some care to thrive. The tree prefers moist, well-draining soil and should be watered regularly during dry spells. Fertilizer can be applied in the spring to encourage healthy growth, but should not be overused. The tree prefers a partially shaded location, but can tolerate full sun in cooler climates. It is hardy in USDA zones 4-7.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Purple European Beech is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to beech bark disease, which is caused by a combination of insect and fungal infestations. The disease can cause damage to the bark and can eventually kill the tree if left untreated. Regular monitoring and treatment with insecticides and fungicides can help prevent this disease.
Habitat
The Purple European Beech is native to the Balkan Peninsula in Europe, but has been cultivated in gardens and parks throughout the world. It prefers a temperate climate with moderate rainfall, and can tolerate both acidic and alkaline soil conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: How tall can a Purple European Beech grow?
A: The tree can grow up to 20 meters in height.
Q: What is beech bark disease?
A: Beech bark disease is caused by a combination of insect and fungal infestations, which can cause damage to the bark and eventually kill the tree if left untreated.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for the Purple European Beech?
A: The tree is hardy in USDA zones 4-7.
Q: Can the seed capsules of the Purple European Beech be used to propagate new trees?
A: Yes, the small, prickly seed capsules can be used to propagate new trees.
Related Plants
- Fagus sylvatica
- Fagus grandifolia
- Fagus crenata
- Fagus orientalis
References
- Dirr, M. A. (2009). Manual of woody landscape plants: their identification, ornamental characteristics, culture, propagation and uses. Stipes Publishing.
- Huxley, A. (1999). The new Royal Horticultural Society dictionary of gardening. Grove’s Dictionaries.
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Fagus sylvatica ‘Rohanii’. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b607
