Cut-leaf Beech, Asplenifolia Beech, Fern-leaf Beech

Fagus sylvatica Asplenifolia, also known as the Fern-leaf or Cut-leaf Beech, is a majestic cultivar of the Common Beech, Fagus sylvatica that has deeply serrated leaves. 

It was introduced to the UK in the early 1800’s and has been a favourite as a specimen tree ever since. It won the RHS Award of Garden Merit in 2002.

The most notable characteristic of this lovely tree is the dark green, long, deeply serrated leaves, which make a fine and interesting feature on such a large and impressive tree. The leaves are retained until fairly late in autumn, when they turn golden brown before falling. Like all Beech, this tree prefers to be planted on a fertile, well drained soil and will not perform well on clay or light sand. 

It retains a very regular pyramidal shape when young, broadening with age to become more like its parent. 

The key when planting such a magnificent specimen is to give it enough room to develop into the wonderful specimen tree that it wishes to be; any complimentary planting should not be closer than 10m away.

Fagus sylvatica Asplenifolia is a simply splendid tree, it is best planted in parklands, estates or arboretums where there is the space for it to reach its full capacity. 

The dark green colour of the foliage is perfect to couple with a complementary red or golden foliage tree for dramatic contrast.

Why do some trees hold onto their dead leaves?

Mature Height: 12-17m

Common names

Cut-leaf Beech, Asplenifolia Beech, Fern-leaf Beech

Height of tree

12-17m

Soil type

Well drained, Chalk/Alkaline, Acidic

Shape

Pyramidal

Information Flags

Award

Looks good in

Summer

Location

Parkland

Genus

Fagus