Rivers Purple Beech

Rivers Purple Beech (Fagus sylvatica 'Riversii')

Rivers Purple Beech (Fagus sylvatica 'Riversii') is a classic and widely admired cultivar known for its large, lustrous purple leaves and stately presence. With a broad, rounded canopy and rich seasonal color, this long-lived tree makes a bold statement in expansive gardens, estates, and park-like settings where space allows it to fully develop.

Distinctive Features

'Riversii' is prized for its deeply colored foliage, which emerges black-purple in spring, transitions to deep reddish-purple in summer, and finishes with bronze tones in fall. The tree forms a symmetrical crown with strong, horizontal branching and smooth gray bark. It typically reaches 50 to 70 feet in height and 40 to 60 feet in spread, creating an impressive shade canopy.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil: Moist, well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil
• Water: Moderate; prefers regular moisture but tolerates short dry spells once established
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5�7

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Rich color and large stature make it ideal as a centerpiece tree
• Estate Plantings: Adds grandeur and structure to large landscapes
• Shade Tree: Broad canopy provides dense, cooling shade
• Formal Gardens: Perfect for traditional settings or long-view plantings
• Legacy Tree: A long-lived selection that matures beautifully over time

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Water deeply during establishment; more drought tolerant when mature
• Pruning: Minimal pruning needed; shape during dormancy if desired
• Fertilizing: Apply compost or a slow-release fertilizer in early spring
• Mulching: Mulch to maintain moisture and protect shallow roots
• Protection: Avoid compaction or mechanical injury to the root zone

Why Choose Rivers Purple Beech?

• Deep Purple Foliage: Bold, consistent coloration through the growing season
• Stately Form: Broad, symmetrical crown provides elegance and scale
• Year-Round Interest: Smooth bark and strong structure add winter beauty
• Long-Term Impact: Grows into a magnificent specimen with age
• Focal Point: Rich color and form create lasting visual impact

Fagus sylvatica 'Riversii' brings timeless elegance and bold foliage color to the landscape, making it a premier choice for gardeners seeking a showstopping shade tree with enduring beauty and structure.