A cultivar of the Fagus sylvatica ‘Purpurea Pendula’, the european beech ‘Purple Fountain”s columnar and weeping form has made it better suited to narrow areas than its aforementioned parent. Its byname the ‘Purple Fountain’ rose from its physical appearance of rich purple leaves that appear to be fountain-like. This cultivar is considered to be low maintenance and tall adding to its appealing nature for gardeners.
I. Appearance and Characteristics
Fagus sylvatica ‘Purple Fountain’ looks truly astonishing when its red/purple foliage emerges in the spring, turning purple/green and then bronze and gold in the autumn. The pendulous branches of this Purple Beech sweep down from the central leader, some reaching the ground.
‘Purple Fountain’ is a beautiful slender weeping Beech tree that will grow to 8 x 3 metres in 20 years and can tolerate an exposed site. Most soils will do, but avoid very wet positions. Plant in full sun for the very best colour.
II. How to Grow and Care
Sunlight
European beech ‘Purple Fountain’ thrives best under full sun exposure, which allows for optimal growth and the healthiest display of its striking foliage. However, it can also tolerate partial sun, though less direct light may slightly impact its vigor and the vibrancy of its leaf color. In outdoor settings, european beech ‘Purple Fountain’ should be planted in locations that offer daily sun exposure, without obstruction from taller structures or dense tree canopies. This exposure ensures european beech ‘Purple Fountain’ achieves its characteristic growth and maintains an attractive appearance throughout the seasons.
Temperature
European beech ‘Purple Fountain’ displays notable resilience to temperature fluctuations, tolerating cold down to -25℃ (-13℉) and heat up to 35℃ (95℉). Its robust cold tolerance means it can withstand harsh winters, although protective mulching and windbreaks are recommended. During hot summers, ensuring adequate watering and partial shade can prevent heat stress. Symptoms of cold damage include leaf browning and branch dieback, while overheating may cause leaf scorch and wilting. Countermeasures for overcooling include insulating roots, while shading and regular watering help mitigate overheating. Overall, european beech ‘Purple Fountain”s temperature tolerance makes it suitable for a variety of climates, with appropriate care.
Watering
Originating from the temperate European forests, european beech ‘Purple Fountain’ thrives in moist, well-drained soils, reflecting its adaptation to consistent rainfall patterns. This species exhibits a preference for steady moisture without being waterlogged, indicating moderate drought tolerance. Regular watering is crucial for maintaining its health, ideally twice a week. Transitioning seamlessly into an innovative note, european beech ‘Purple Fountain’ is typically grown outdoors where it can establish its deep root system – essential for accessing water during dry spells and supporting its majestic deciduous growth.
Soil
European beech ‘Purple Fountain’ naturally grows in temperate European woodlands, thriving in well-drained, fertile soils with a pH range of 5.0 to 6.5. It prefers loamy soil rich in organic matter, which supports nutrient absorption and plant health. For optimal soil composition, mix 40% loam, 30% compost, 20% sand, and 10% perlite to enhance aeration and drainage. Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot by incorporating coarse sand or grit. Amend with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring. This care promotes vigorous growth and vibrant foliage.
Fertilizing
Depending on soil type, your european beech ‘Purple Fountain’ may need regular applications of fertilizer. About 2 kg of a balanced, 10-10-10 fertilizer should be spread over the root zone and watered in for every 10 ㎡ of the root zone. The width of the tree’s root zone is roughly 30 cm more than that of the canopy.
However, fertilizer should not be added during the first year after planting. A balanced, granular fertilizer can be added in the tree’s second year in the fall. This can be repeated in the third and fourth years, but, as a general rule, european beech ‘Purple Fountain’ should not be treated with fertilizer after its fourth year. Excess fertilizer can lead to the tree becoming stressed.
Planting Instructions
European beech ‘Purple Fountain’ can live for 200-300 years, and the dense crown can reach 13 to 20 m across at full maturity. The positioning of your european beech ‘Purple Fountain’ is therefore very important – it needs enough room for the root system to grow as extensively as that of the canopy and crown.
The width of your planting hole should be dug twice the size of the root ball, so that the soil around the planting area becomes loosened. This will encourage the roots to grow into the surrounding soil rather than staying in the hole. In poor quality soils, a few shovels of compost should be added to the soil used to re-fill the hole. No other amendments should be used at planting.
Pruning
European beech ‘Purple Fountain’ is renowned for its unique, weeping form and deep purple foliage. Pruning european beech ‘Purple Fountain’ should be done in early spring before new growth begins. Focus on removing dead or weak branches to enhance air circulation and maintain its desired shape. Avoid heavy pruning, as this can stress the plant. Light, regular pruning promotes a healthier structure and vigorous growth, ensuring european beech ‘Purple Fountain’ retains its ornamental beauty.
Propagation
European beech ‘Purple Fountain’ is propagated through cuttings, a method compatible with its growth habits. One should select healthy, mature stems for this process, making sure to cut at a 45-degree angle to increase the surface area for root development. The use of rooting hormone can enhance success rates. It’s imperative to maintain consistent moisture and provide a well-draining soil mix to foster root growth without succumbing to rot. A sheltered environment, like a cold frame or greenhouse, will protect the tender cuttings until they are resilient enough to transplant.
Transplanting
The best time to relocate european beech ‘Purple Fountain’ is when temperatures are moderate, typically from the verge of spring warmth to the freshness of late spring, or during the gentle dormancy from autumn to winter’s midpoint. Ensure european beech ‘Purple Fountain’ has a spot with well-drained soil and partial shade. A friendly tip for success: generous watering will help european beech ‘Purple Fountain’ settle into its new home!
III. Uses and Benefits
Fagus sylvatica Purple Fountain makes for a fantastic specimen and is also commonly added to a mixed planting or can be maintained in a courtyard garden. It is also well suited to having the branches trained along a wire to give a pleached effect.
