Fagus sylvatica

"The European Beech – A Profile

Since the European beech is the only native beech species in Central Europe, it is commonly referred to simply as the 'beech.' Despite its name, its leaves are green, not red. The name comes from its slightly reddish-colored wood. In contrast, the leaves of the copper beech (Fagus sylvatica 'Atropunicea') are dark red."

As a freestanding tree, the European beech reaches a height of about 18-24 meters and up to 18 meters in width in our climate. It thrives best in moderately moist, loamy, alkaline soils. However, like many other trees, it does not tolerate soil compaction, waterlogging, or long dry periods very well.

• Distribution in German Forests**

With a total area of about 1.68 million hectares (around 16% of the total forest area), the European beech is the most common broadleaf tree species in our forests. This is a notable achievement, considering that the beech population experienced the greatest decline of any German tree species due to deforestation and poor forest management. As part of the reforestation programs that began at the end of the 18th century, nearly half of the German forest area is still made up of pines and spruces. The forests of Brandenburg even have a 73% pine share! Today, however, forest management aims for balanced mixed forests. Broadleaf trees not only bind more CO2 (beech trees bind, on average, 40% more CO2 than spruces), but they are also more permeable to precipitation in winter compared to conifers, thus promoting soil hydration. Additionally, mixed forests are more resilient to environmental influences and pests.

• A Tree for Parks and Gardens**

Its size, combined with its slightly wavy foliage and strong, smooth trunk, makes the European beech a popular tree for larger garden and park landscapes. However, as a hedge element, it is also of interest for private gardens. Unlike most deciduous trees, the European beech retains its autumn leaves until spring, when the new green leaves sprout, providing year-round privacy.