Bare Root European Copper Beech (Fagus sylvatica 'Purpurea')

Large deciduous tree
Description: Leaves unfurl a tender, copper green gradually turning a deep purple bronze; smooth, pewter-hued bark; pyramidal to rounded tree
Habit: Grows to 60' feet, spreading 35-45' feet
Culture: Prefers full sun to part shade and rich, moist soil with plenty of organic matter; surface roots must never be disturbed by cultivation or covered with sod
Hardiness: USDA Zones 5 through 7
Origin: Germany
Jefferson-documented

The original purple-leaf beech was discovered in the Hanleiter Forest of Germany before 1772. The copper beech was an early offspring of this wild form with paler leaves. In 1807 Jefferson twice ordered "Purple Beeches" from Thomas Main's nursery in Georgetown. Jefferson directed his overseer, Edmund Bacon, to plant them in the southwest and northwest angles of Monticello.

This plant will ship bare root. 1-2' hedge.

Bare root planting tips:

~ If you can't plant immediately, store your plant in a cool location and keep the roots moist or pot in a container with a nursery potting mix from your local garden center.
~ Before planting, let the roots soak for several hours as you prepare the site. You'll want to dig a large enough hole so the root mass can spread out and the plant is at the same soil level as when it was growing in the nursery.
~ Once planted, water it in well and wait a month before fertilizing. Mulching will help to maintain moisture and raise soil temperatures for faster growth.