Plant Guide: Copper Beech Trees

Photography by Britt Willoughby Dyer, unless noted otherwise.

Copper beech, the bronzed cousin of European beech, was first recorded in 15th century Germany. It has made itself known since then as an ensemble performer, when grown as hedging, and as an occasional star when allowed to shine on its own. Read on for a short guide to this versatile tree.

Copper beech really is coppery in the greate outdoors, turning more green in late summer.

Copper beech trees are often used to make a statement in landscape design.

For a modern-looking approach, garden designer Arne Maynard features cuboid copper beech.

For a harmonious design, pair copper beech with other purple plants, such as smoke bush or black elder.

Here, a young copper beech is complemented by the green foliage of a young linden tree.

Photo by Jim Powell

Planting beneath beech can sometimes be a problem, as the thick foliage may prevent rain from reaching the ground.

Photo courtesy of Houghton Hall

Copper beech works well as a structural element in a formal scheme: here, The Sybil Hedge at Houghton Hall in Norfolk.

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