Fagus sylvatica 'Riversii' (Riversii Purple Leaved European Beech)

Michael's Opinion

Often called purpurea, Riversii is an intense purple form, with the new shoots in spring almost black in colour. It is a majestic tree that reach over 25m and can be over 10m across. Suited to the lighter soils where positive drainage is a must, it will however flourish on the heavy clay soils on my home if the above mentioned condition is met. An estate tree that must be given ample room for your ancestors to enjoy.

Botanical Information

FamilyFagaceae
GenusFagus
Speciessylvatica
Cultivar'Riversii'
CategoryWoody
TypeTree (deciduous)
OriginIn the Atropurpurea group.
Pronunciation

Details

USDA Hardiness Zone6b - 7a
USDA Hardiness Ref.
Canadian Hardiness Zone6b
Canada Hardiness Ref.
RHS Hardiness ZoneH6 (observed growing well in H7)
RHS Hardiness Ref.
Temperature (°C)-20 to -15
Temperature (°F)4 - 5
Height20 m
Spread10 m
GrowthSlow
Flowering PeriodApril

Description and Growing Information

General DescriptionLarge, broad canopied deciduous tree.
ID CharacteristicLarge deep purple, elliptic leaves.
LandscapeHedging and as a specimen plant.
PropagationGrafting.
CultivationIn sun grown in well-drained soil.
PestsAphids.
HabitatHorticultural origin.

Photographs