The Graceful Weeping Beech Tree (Fagus sylvatica ‘Pendula’)

The weeping beech tree, whose scientific name is Fagus sylvatica “Pendula,” is a beautiful and interesting type of European beech tree. Because of the way its branches fall dramatically, it makes a unique focal point in any landscape.

An Overview of the Weeping Beech

The weeping beech is a cultivar of the common European beech (Fagus sylvatica). It likely originated as a chance mutation found growing in an English park. The weeping habit is achieved through grafting branches onto an upright trunk. This gives the tree its distinctive growth form

The most recognizable thing about the weeping beech is that its branches hang down. The long, thin branches fall down gracefully, sometimes all the way to the ground. This gives the tree a flowing, fountain-like appearance. The weeping beech is often wider than it is tall, which is different from the species. Mature heights are typically 25-50 feet.

A weeping beech tree has glossy green leaves that are elliptical in shape and have wavy edges. In fall, they transition to lovely coppery-bronze tones. On older trunks, the bark is smooth and silvery-gray, muscled, and looks like elephant skin. Small greenish flowers appear in spring, but they are insignificant. The tree produces small, triangular edible beechnuts in late summer/fall.

Growing Conditions for Weeping Beech

Though originally from Europe, weeping beech can be grown in USDA hardiness zones 4-7 It prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade Well-drained, moisture retentive soil is ideal. Avoid planting weeping beech in areas with pollution, salt spray, or compacted soil.

Weeping beech is slow growing, especially when young. For the first few years, staking the trunk will encourage upright growth Without staking, the central leader may not adequately establish Proper pruning when young helps create an attractive structure. Mature weeping beeches may live 150-200 years.

Using Weeping Beech in the Landscape

The weeping beech is a beautiful tree that stands out in the landscape because of its hanging branches. You can use it as a stand-alone plant or add it to mixed borders and cottage gardens. The gracefully falling branches give upright trees and shrubs a unique texture contrast.

Weeping beech also works well in formal settings like English gardens. When underplanted with lower growing plants, the cascading branches create a canopy effect. The tree provides dappled shade below, allowing lower growing plants to thrive.

For maximum impact, use weeping beech where the gracefully weeping branches can be highlighted. Avoid planting it in dense shrub borders or other tight spots. Give the branches room to sweep down unencumbered. Site it where the graceful form can be viewed from multiple angles.

Cultivating Other Interesting Beech Trees

Beyond the weeping variety, there are many other interesting cultivars of beech worth considering:

• Purple beech (Fagus sylvatica ‘Purpurea’) – Deep purple foliage
• Dawyck beech (Fagus sylvatica ‘Dawyck’) – Fastigiate (columnar) form
• Copper beech (Fagus sylvatica ‘Purpurea’) – Coppery purple foliage
• American beech (Fagus grandifolia) – Native North American species
• Tri-color beech (Fagus sylvatica ‘Roseomarginata’) – Leaves edged in pink, white, and green

The different leaf shapes, growth habits, bark textures, and foliage colors provide options for every landscape situation.

Potential Problems with Weeping Beech

Overall, weeping beech is relatively pest and disease free. However, it can be susceptible to the following:

• Beech blight aphid
• Borer insects
• Beech bark disease
• Powdery mildew
• Leaf spot

Avoiding stress and proper care will reduce the likelihood of pest and disease issues. Quickly removing and destroying affected plant parts when spotted can help prevent spreading.

How to Plant and Care for Weeping Beech

Here are some tips for successfully growing weeping beech:

• Select a site with full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. Avoid compacted clay soil.

• Stake the central leader when planting to promote vertical growth. Allow enough space for the mature spread of the cascading branches.

• Water regularly for the first few years to establish an extensive root system. Mature trees are quite drought tolerant.

• Mulch around the base to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds. Avoid piling mulch against the trunk.

• Prune to shape the branching structure when young. Avoid heavy pruning of mature trees.

• Fertilize lightly in early spring with a balanced organic fertilizer.

With its graceful form and pendulous branching, the weeping beech tree provides unique beauty and interest to the home landscape. Proper planting and care will allow you to enjoy its elegant cascading branches for years to come.