B Grade European Beech (Fagus sylvatica)

1 year old Bareroot seedling 

‘Grade B’ plants are smaller seedlings that finished the season a bit undersized to be considered ready for field planting for many folks. They are healthy and alive, but a bit small (usually less than 8") and able to get lost in the weeds quickly. They can be field planted to their final homes if you are on top of  watering, mulching, and weeding. We recommend  planting them in a home nursery bed to grow for one full season, develop much larger root systems and be very ready for tougher conditions and less care next year. This is an affordable and sensible way to start small so you can go big with your plantings.

Origin of Our Seedlings Our Beech tree seedlings are sourced from parent trees of the Copper Beech variety. About half the trees we have are showing purple qualities.

The Beech stands regal and majestic, renowned as the queen of British trees. It creates a cathedral of leaves, providing an enchanting experience beneath its grand canopy. Its young leaves, a lively lime green with delicate hairs, are not only visually appealing but also serve as a unique edible component and is one of the edible tree leafs if managed by coppicing cooking the fresh leaves properly .

Copper Beech The Copper or Purple Beech, cultivated from the common Beech, reaches towering heights exceeding 40m. It exhibits a smooth, grey bark and slender, zig-zag patterned twigs, while its coppery leaf buds, torpedo-shaped and up to 2cm in length, showcase a distinctive criss-cross pattern, setting it apart.

Supporting Wildlife and Biodiversity The Beech tree is a treasure trove for wildlife, providing sustenance for caterpillars of varied moths and seeds for small mammals and birds. Its longevity ensures a haven for diverse species, including hole-nesting birds and wood-boring insects, while its bark supports fungi, mosses, and lichens.As an exceptional hedging plant, the Beech is resilient, tolerating hard pruning, and providing a dense, leafy screen all year round, enhancing both privacy and bird habitats.

Edibility and Nutritional Benefits Though small, the Beech nuts are not only edible but packed with nutrition, serving as a valuable food source for humans and wildlife alike. Their size belies their potent nutritional content, making them a worthwhile harvest for those seeking a natural, wholesome addition to their diet.

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