Fagus sylvatica, commonly called European beech, is a large deciduous
tree typically growing to 50-60’ (less frequently to 100’) tall with a dense,
upright-oval to rounded-spreading crown. It is native to woodlands in central
and southern Europe. European colonists brought this tree to America in the
mid-1700s and it has been a popular ornamental shade tree since that time.
European beech is primarily distinguished from the similar American beech
(see Fagus grandifolia) by (a) smaller size, (b) darker gray bark, and (c)
shorter leaves that have wavy mostly untoothed margins. It is a low-branched
tree, with its trunk ranging from 2-3’ (less frequently 4’) in diameter. Trunks
have distinctive bark that is thin, smooth and gray. Ovate to elliptic,
lustrous dark green leaves (to 4” long) have wavy mostly toothless margins and
prominent parallel veins. Foliage turns golden bronze in fall. Monoecious
yellowish green flowers bloom in April-May, the male flowers in drooping,
long-stemmed, globular clusters and the female flowers in short spikes. Female
flowers give way to triangular nuts enclosed by spiny bracts. Beechnuts ripen
in fall and are edible. Excellent shade tree for large lawns and parks.
Growing
Instructions for the European Beech
The seeds need to be planted when
received or stored in a refrigerator until they are planted. The seeds have a
period of dormancy. They can be planted outdoors in the fall or winter for
spring germination or they can be cold stratified to simulate winter conditions
and to break their dormancy at any time of the year. 1. Place the seeds in a
plastic bag and seal it. Store the bag in a refrigerator for 2-3 months. 2. The
seeds like moist, well-drained soil. Fill a pot with a mixture of half potting
soil and half sand or vermiculite. 3. Sow the seeds on the soil and cover them
with a thin layer of soil. 4. Water the container and leave it to drain. 5. Put
the pot in a warm, sunny area. 6. Water the pot regularly so that the soil is
moist but not wet. 7. The seedlings can be transplanted when they are a few
inches tall.
5. Put the pot in a warm, sunny area.
6. Water the pot regularly so that the soil is moist but not wet.
7. The seedlings can be transplanted when they are a few inches tall.
Hayden (verified owner) –
The seeds had a great germination rate
Camden (verified owner) –
Awesome product and company
Richard (verified owner) –
Awesome product and company
Jackson (verified owner) –
I would absolutely recommend this seed to anyone looking to grow veggies this year. I decided to do starts this year and just three days after planting
Michael (verified owner) –
Good service.