Fagus sylvatica ‘Atropunicea’ — Purple Copper Beech - FULL STANDARD (180-200cm clear stem)

Fagus sylvatica ‘Atropunicea’, commonly known as the Copper Beech or Purple Beech, is a striking deciduous tree renowned for its dramatic deep purple-bronze foliage throughout the growing season. Suitable for larger garden spaces, avenues and structural planting, this elegant tree forms a sweeping canopy of richly coloured leaves that create a bold architectural presence. From spring through summer, the foliage holds a strong purple-red to copper hue, before transitioning to warm autumn tones, adding seasonal impact and textural contrast to the landscape. As a cultivar of the classic European beech, Fagus sylvatica, ‘Atropunicea’ combines impressive stature with ornamental foliage, making it a highly regarded specimen for grand garden settings, boundary plantings, or mixed tree groupings where colour and form are equally valued. Copper Beeches are long-lived, robust and well-suited to formal and informal landscapes alike, developing into magnificent, broad-crowned trees over time. 

Product details

• Deciduous tree with deep purple-bronze foliage

• Foliage colour intensifies in full sun and offers striking seasonal interest

• 180–200 cm clear stem/trunk height

Growing conditions

• Hardiness: Fully hardy throughout the UK once established; tolerates a wide range of conditions

• Prefers fertile, moist but well-drained soils including loam and clay loam

• Full sun is ideal to maximise foliage colour; partial shade will soften hues

• Tolerates a range of soil pH from slightly acidic to neutral or alkaline

• Best in open, sunny positions with space to develop a broad crown

For queries regarding larger or smaller sizes, please contact us at Info@hctrees.uk.

Quick botanical note

Fagus sylvatica ‘Atropunicea’ (Purple Beech) is a selected form within the European beech species known for its richly coloured leaves throughout spring, summer and autumn. The deep leaf colour is most intense in sun and makes it a standout specimen in large gardens and structural plantings.