Rohani Beech, Oakleaf Beech, Rohan European Saw-toothed Beech, Fern Leaved Copper Beech

Fagus sylvatica Rohanii, or Rohani Beech, is usually commonly referred to as the Oakleaf Beech, despite having a long list of alternate names, and is an unusual and rare form of frilly-leaved Purple Beech.

This splendid and slow-growing Beech cultivar is a cross between Fagus sylvatica Quercifolia and Purpurea, forming a purple-leaved Beech variety with a distinctly oak-leaved shape. 

The foliage is truly splendid, deep purple in colour with a wavy margin. At maturity, Fagus sylvatica Rohanii forms a large pyramidal tree that is perfect for parks, estates, and open spaces. 

Like all Beech cultivars, this cultivar does well in most reasonably fertile, well-drained soils. However, it will not thrive in heavy clay or light sand and should not be planted in exposed or coastal locations.

Each year, we only have a limited number of stunning Oakleaf Beech specimens available. Despite being introduced in the mid-1890s, it is still quite rare, and therefore, if you are interested in one for your arboretum collection or planting scheme, it is best to reserve in good time to avoid disappointment. 

Like all dark purple-leaved trees, Fagus sylvatica Rohanii is best planted towards the back of a scheme, as its colours tend to draw focus away from anything that may sit behind.

Why do some trees hold onto their dead leaves?

Mature Height: 12-17m

Common names

Rohani Beech, Oakleaf Beech, Rohan European Saw-toothed Beech, Fern Leaved Copper Beech

Height of tree

12-17m

Soil type

Well drained, Chalk/Alkaline, Acidic

Shape

Pyramidal

Foliage Colour

Red/Purple, Silver/Green

Looks good in

Summer

Location

Garden, Parkland, Avenue

Genus

Fagus