Also known as Beech · Beuk · Bok
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Fagus sylvatica, the European Beech, is a large deciduous tree known for its smooth grey bark and green leaves that turn golden-bronze in autumn. It is a long-lived speci
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full sun to partial shade.
80% intensity
Moderate for young trees, drought-tolerant when mature.
50% intensity
Ensure good drainage.
Well-drained, fertile, loamy soil, pH neutral to alkaline
50% intensity
Extremely hardy, -20°C to 30°C.
90% intensity
Prefers temperate climates.
Outdoor
50% intensity
Not typically needed for mature trees; young trees benefit from balanced fertilizer.
20% intensity
Apply in early spring.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 1/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 1/5 intensity |
| Edible | Yes |
Generally considered non-toxic. Beechnuts, if consumed raw in very large quantities, may cause mild gastrointestinal upset due to tannins and oxalic acid.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Young European Beech trees require consistent watering, especially during their first few years and dry periods, to establish a robust root system.
Once mature, they become quite drought-tolerant, though deep watering during extended dry spells is beneficial. Ensure the soil drains well to prevent waterlogging, which can harm the roots.
Pruning for mature European Beech trees is generally minimal, focusing on removing any dead, diseased, or damaged branches to maintain tree health and structure.
It is best done in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. For hedging purposes, it tolerates hard pruning and can be shaped effectively.
European Beech can be propagated from seeds, which require a period of cold stratification before germination. Collect ripe beechnuts in autumn and store them in moist sand or peat in a refrigerator for 3-4 months.
Sow them in spring. Softwood cuttings can also be attempted in early summer, though success rates vary.
European Beech is a large, long-lived tree typically grown in the ground, not in pots. Repotting is not applicable for this species in its natural growth habit.
If grown as a bonsai or in a container for a very short period, repotting would follow standard bonsai or container tree practices, typically every 2-3 years.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of European Beech (Fagus sylvatica)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fagales |
| Family | Fagaceae |
| Genus | Fagus |
| Species | Fagus sylvatica |
Similar in genus Fagus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
