Weeping European Beech

Fagus sylvatica (FAG-us sil-VAT-ee-kuh PEND-yoo-luh)

Family: Fagaceae Unknown Canopy (>40 ft)

Weeping European Beech is a broadleaf, deciduous tree in the Fagaceae family. The f. in the plant's scientific name indicates that this plant is a secondary form, secondary to species and variety. In the case of the Fagus sylvataica beech, there are two forms, mushroom and the pendula, or fountain form. The fountain form is narrow and tall with drooping branches, giving it the appearance of weeping, hence the common name. 'Pendula' will typically reach a height of 35 to 50 feet, although it is slow to grow (about a foot each year). The genus name comes from the Latin name. The species name means growing in woods or forest-loving. The form, or cultivar name, comes from the Latin word meaning "hanging down" in reference to the drooping plant branches. The Weeping European Beech does best in deep, rich, moist but well-drained soils in full sun to part shade. It does not tolerate wet, poorly drained soils, can be difficult to transplant, and does not always grow well in urban settings. It is a little more tolerant of different soil types than American beech ( Fagus grandifolia ). This tree is resistant to browsing by deer. It can have problems with high summer temperatures, but is tolerant of pruning and can be used as a hedge or screen. Within the 'Pendula' form there are variations: (1) upright central trunk that droops at the top with major branches extending outward horizontally before drooping sharply downward, sometimes reaching the ground, and (2) broad crown with spreading main branches and drooping side branches. To encourage a vertical trunk, the tree should be staked when young; else it will grow wide rather than tall. Use as an accent or specimen in the lawn or woodland area. Diseases, Insect Pests, and Other Plant Problems: No serious insect or disease problems. Beech scale, aphids, Japanese beetles and caterpillars can be occasional problems. Distressed trees may be attacked by borers. Beech bark disease, canker and powdery mildew may occur. VIDEO created by Ryan Contreras for “Landscape Plant Materials I: Deciduous Hardwoods and Conifers or Landscape Plant Materials II: Spring Flowering Trees and Shrubs” a plant identification course offered by the Department of Horticulture at Oregon State University More information on Fagus sylvatica .

Source: NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox ↗ NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox, 73 attributes.