Trinity tree of the month - Willow Leaved Beech

Posted on: 26 April 2023

Trinity’s Estates and Facilities team are currently working to increase the diversity of our tree stock as openings arise with suitable species and cultivars.  This tree was selected from a local nursery to replace the Sophora japonica that previously stood there. Unfortunately the Sophora was badly damaged during two storms and reached a stage where it was no longer feasible to keep it due to health and safety risks.

Willow-leaved Beech is a very rare dwarf cultivar of Common Beech Fagus sylvatica, which can be found on campus. It was first discovered growing in Germany during the late nineteenth century. This type of Beech is a slow growing tree and is grown for its unusual striking foliage which is radically narrow, long like a willow and deep purple in colour, before changing to bronzy purple in autumn. It is just starting to come out in bud now so keep an eye on this beautiful specimen as it grows during this year to truly appreciate it’s graceful beauty.

Due to the transplantation process, the tree will be in slight shock and so the foliage may be slightly smaller this year than usual.  However, once fully established, the leaves can reach up to 15 cm in length. The tree is slow growing and has an open, almost weeping branching habit which gives it an elegant gossamer and feathery appearance. Compare the foliage of this beech to the large specimen Copper Beech Fagus sylvatica Purpurea at the corner of New Square and the Rose Garden to see the difference!