How big does a purple fountain beech get?

Purple Fountain Beech, also known as Fagus sylvatica ‘Purple Fountain,’ is a stunning ornamental tree that can add a touch of elegance to any landscape. As a gardening and landscaping expert, I can provide you with detailed information about the size and growth habits of this beautiful tree.

At maturity, the Purple Fountain Beech can reach a height of about 30 feet, making it a fairly tall tree. It has a spread of approximately 15 feet, giving it a slightly narrower crown compared to other beech varieties. The tree’s growth habit is upright and columnar, which means it maintains a relatively compact and slim shape. This makes it a great choice for smaller gardens or areas where space is limited.

When planting the Purple Fountain Beech, it is essential to consider its low canopy and clearance from the ground. The tree typically has a clearance of about 1 foot, meaning the lowest branches will start at around that height. This low canopy allows for easy maintenance and creates a neat and tidy appearance. However, it’s important to ensure that there is enough space for the tree to grow without obstruction.

One factor to keep in mind when planting the Purple Fountain Beech is its susceptibility to diseases and pests. While this variety of beech is generally hardy and disease-resistant, it can still be affected by certain issues. It is crucial to provide proper care, including regular watering, adequate sunlight, and proper soil conditions, to help the tree thrive and minimize the risk of disease or pest infestations.

In terms of location, it’s important to avoid planting the Purple Fountain Beech underneath power lines. The tree’s mature height of 30 feet may interfere with overhead lines, potentially leading to maintenance issues or the need for frequent pruning. By selecting an appropriate planting location, you can ensure that the tree can grow to its full potential without any interference.

Personal experience: I have had the pleasure of planting and caring for several Purple Fountain Beech trees in various landscapes. One particular instance stands out in my memory. I planted a Purple Fountain Beech in a small urban garden where space was limited. Its slim and upright growth habit made it an ideal choice for this location. Over the years, the tree grew beautifully, reaching its mature height of 30 feet without overpowering the space. Its deep purple foliage added a sense of drama and contrast to the surrounding plants, creating a visually striking focal point in the garden.

The Purple Fountain Beech is a relatively tall tree, reaching a height of about 30 feet at maturity, with a spread of approximately 15 feet. Its growth habit is upright and columnar, making it a great choice for smaller gardens or areas with limited space. It is important to consider its low canopy and clearance from the ground when selecting a planting location. By providing proper care and avoiding planting underneath power lines, you can enjoy the beauty and elegance of this stunning ornamental tree in your landscape.

Photo of author

Caroline Bates

Caroline is a Miami-based landscaper who specializes in drought-tolerant landscapes. She is the mother of two young children and also enjoys writing for GreenPacks.org in her spare time. Caroline takes great pride in her work, and loves being able to share her knowledge with others through her writing.