Beech | Fagus sylvatica
For a single row of hedging, you will need 4 plants per metre; for a double row of hedging, you will need 6 plants per metre.
Beech is a popular hedging plant due to its attractive year-round foliage. The delicate golden green leaves of the summer turn to a rich copper colour in the autumn, and although deciduous, these copper leaves stay on the plants over winter until they make way for new growth in the spring. This makes beech a great alternative to evergreen hedging. It’s also a wonderful addition to a native mixed hedge providing a burst of winter colour and shelter for local wildlife.
Beech thrives in normal, clay and chalk soils and can be planted in full sun or semi-shade. It is slow growing at first, then once established will grow between 30 – 60cm per year.
Beech grows best in light to medium soil and does not tolerate waterlogged roots for any length of time. We recommend regular watering while they establish to prevent drying out.
Our beech whips are grown in the UK from UK origin seed.
| Binomial Name | Fagus sylvatica |
| Lifecycle | Perennial |
| Soil Type | •Neutral •Chalky •Clay •Acidic •Loam •Well-draining |
| Habitat | •Hedgerow •Woodland |
| Sunlight | ✔Full sun |
| Best Time to Plant | •November •December •January •February •March |
| Fast Establishment | ✖ |
| Foliage | Deciduous |