Beech Hedge

A beech hedge can be very attractive in UK gardens. It promotes wildlife and provides a natural windbreak. This page provides a brief description of beech hedging and its uses.

Common Name:	Common Beech (also known as green beech)
Botanical Name:	Fagus sylvatica
Description:	A native hedge with medium green leaves. The leaves turn a copper colour in the winter and although this is a deciduous plant it will retain the leaves throughout the winter until the new green leaves appear in the Spring.
Native Hedge?	Yes
Formal or Informal Hedge?	Formal
Evergreen Hedge?	No - but see description
Ideal Height:	Medium (1.5-2m)
Average growth p.a.	Fast (up to 60cm p.a)
Suitable conditions	Exposed/windy conditions Chalky soil
Unsuitable conditions	Heavy or wet soil Frost pockets Dense shade Coastal areas
Responds to renovation?	Yes
Planting Distance	30-60cm
Maintenance:	Low (one annual clipping in July/August will help ensure the leaves are retained for the winter)

Common Name:	Copper Beech (also known as purple beech)
Botanical Name:	Fagus sylvatica purpurea
Description:	A native hedge with deep purple leaves. The leaves turn a copper colour in the winter and although this is a deciduous plant it will retain the leaves throughout the winter until the new green leaves appear in the Spring.
Native Hedge?	Yes
Formal or Informal Hedge?	Formal
Evergreen Hedge?	No - but see description
Ideal Height:	Medium (1.5-2m)
Average growth p.a.	Fast (up to 60cm p.a)
Suitable conditions	Exposed/windy conditions Chalky soil
Unsuitable conditions	Heavy or wet soil Frost pockets Dense shade Coastal areas
Responds to renovation?	Yes
Planting Distance	30-60cm
Maintenance:	Low (one annual clipping in July/August will help ensure the leaves are retained for the winter)