Finding the Perfect Weeping Beech Tree for Your Landscape

Looking to add an elegant, graceful tree to your property? Consider the weeping beech! This stunning specimen is sure to become the focal point of any landscape with its cascading canopy of leaves and smooth, shimmering bark. In this article, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about weeping beech trees and how to find the perfect one for sale.

The weeping beech, also known by its scientific name Fagus sylvatica ‘Pendula’, is a cultivar of the European beech. It is characterized by its gracefully drooping branches that sweep down to the ground. Unlike the common beech which grows with a rounded habit, the weeping beech has a mournful, pendulous shape that makes it look like its “weeping.”

This unique growth habit is the result of a genetic mutation which causes the branches to grow downward instead of upright. While no one knows exactly when this mutation first occurred, the weeping beech was introduced commercially in Europe in the early 1800s. Since then, it has become a beloved and popular ornamental tree, prized for its distinctive beauty.

In the spring, the weeping beech tree produces fresh green leaves that unfurl along the weeping branches These leaves eventually mature to a lush dark green and provide the iconic cascading foliage. As fall approaches, the leaves transition to a stunning golden bronze before dropping to the ground. The smooth silver-gray bark provides year-round interest, especially striking when contrasted with winter snow.

Beyond its graceful form and colorful foliage, the weeping beech also grows at a slow rate. This makes it easy to manage in the landscape. With ample space and proper care, it can live 100 years or more!

Benefits of the Weeping Beech Tree

What makes the weeping beech so desirable for landscapes? Here are some of the key benefits this tree provides:

• Graceful beauty The cascading habit and colorful leaves create a graceful, ornamental look perfect for focal points

• Shade: The sweeping branches eventually grow dense enough to provide cool, dappled shade.

• Play space: Kids will love playing under and around the “tent” created by the ground-sweeping branches.

• Year-round interest: Lovely foliage in spring and fall, distinctive branching structure in winter.

• Low maintenance: Slow growth rate and minimal pruning needs.

• Long lifespan: Properly cared for, can live for over a century.

Whether you have a large expansive yard or a small suburban landscape, a weeping beech can make a gorgeous addition. The possibilities are endless for showcasing this tree as a true specimen.

How to Choose a Weeping Beech Tree

Weeping beech trees are sold by local nurseries and online retailers. Here are some tips for picking out the perfect specimen for your needs:

• Decide on mature size: Weeping beeches can grow 40-60 feet tall and wide at maturity. Make sure you have the space!

• Look for healthy growth: Seek out trees with vigorous branching and no signs of disease or pests. Avoid any with damaged roots or trunks.

• Consider multi-stemmed options: Multi-stem weeping beeches have several trunks growing from one base. These create an especially full, elegant look.

• Buy when dormant: Late fall to early spring, when the tree is dormant, is the best time for transplanting.

• Select based on caliper size: The diameter of the trunk (measured in inches about 1 foot above ground) generally correlates with the age/maturity of the tree. Larger caliper sizes typically equate to more established trees.

• Opt for container-grown: For easier transplanting, choose a container-grown weeping beech rather than a balled-and-burlapped tree.

Take the time to pick out a healthy, vibrant weeping beech that suits your landscape space. This will give it the best start in your yard.

Planting and Caring for Your Weeping Beech

Once you’ve brought your weeping beech home, proper planting and care will ensure it thrives for years to come. Here are some tips:

• Plant in spring or fall. The best time to plant is when the tree is dormant – either early spring before buds break or fall after leaves drop.

• Choose a sunny site. Weeping beeches need full sun to grow their best. Provide at least 6 hours of direct sun daily.

• Prepare a wide planting area. Remember, these trees can grow 40-60 feet across. Leave ample room on all sides for the sweeping branches.

• Dig a wide, shallow hole. The planting hole should be 2-3 times wider than the root ball but only as deep.

• Set the root ball on undisturbed soil. Don’t plant too deeply. The top of the root ball should be level with the ground.

• Water thoroughly after planting. Water slowly and deeply to saturate the roots.

• Mulch around the tree. Add 2-4 inches of shredded bark, leaves, compost, etc to conserve moisture.

• Stake the tree if needed. Staking may help stabilize a top-heavy weeping beech, especially in windy areas.

• Prune minimally. Never prune the leader or make drastic cuts. Lightly prune only to control size/shape.

• Water during droughts. Supplement rainfall in dry periods with deep weekly soakings.

With proper planting and care, your weeping beech will grow into a stunning specimen tree! Be patient…the full cascading effect takes time as the tree matures.

Where to Buy a Weeping Beech Tree

Looking for where to find a weeping beech tree for sale? Here are some options:

• Local nurseries – Check independent garden centers or nurseries in your area. Many carry a selection of mature weeping beeches in stock.

• Online mail-order – Various websites like Bower & Branch or Roots to Fruits Nursery sell weeping beeches available for shipping. Make sure to shop when dormant.

• Wholesale nurseries – If you need multiple large weeping beeches, contact a wholesale grower to see about availability.

• Landscapers or tree services – Many landscape companies and arborist businesses sell specimen trees. Ask if they can source a weeping beech.

• Rare tree catalogs – Specialty catalogs focused on unique specimens sometimes carry mature weeping beeches in a variety of sizes.

Be sure to inspect any tree carefully before purchasing. Size, age, health, and form will vary drastically depending on the source. For the best specimen, be selective in choosing your weeping beech!

Common Questions About Weeping Beech Trees

Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about weeping beeches:

How fast do weeping beech trees grow?
Weeping beeches grow at a slow rate, just 12-24 inches annually. It can take 10+ years for the tree to reach its mature weeping size. Have patience!

Do they lose their leaves in winter?
Yes. Weeping beeches are deciduous and lose their leaves as winter arrives. The bare branching structure provides winter interest.

Do the branches touch the ground?
With age, the lowest branches will sweep down gracefully and touch the ground, creating the weeping effect. Allow at least 10 feet vertical clearance for this.

Do they have invasive roots?
No, weeping beeches have non-aggressive roots that generally pose no problems. They will need adequate space though!

Is a lot of pruning required?
Minimal pruning is needed. Only light trimming to shape the canopy or remove dead wood. Never cut the leader or make drastic cuts.

Are they susceptible to diseases?
Weeping beeches are relatively pest and disease resistant. When grown in their preferred climate, they tend to remain quite healthy.

Can they tolerate cold winters?
Yes, weeping beech trees are hardy even in very cold climates down to -30 F when dormant. They favor USDA zones 4-7.

Will the branches stand up to snow or ice?
The graceful weeping branches are prone to damage from heavy snow and ice accumulation. Be prepared to gently shake off excess buildup.

How close can they be planted together?
Leave plenty of space between weeping beeches, at least 30-60 feet depending on the mature size. Their canopies need room to spread.

Adding Graceful Elegance with a Weeping Beech

If you have room in your landscape for a grand, showstopping specimen tree, consider making it a weeping beech. The beauty of its flowing, pendulous branches and shimmering colorful foliage is truly unmatched. With ample space, proper planting, and minimal care, this graceful tree will contribute beauty as well as shade to your yard for decades to come.

When sourcing your weeping beech, shop from reputable nurseries and be selective in choosing a healthy, well-formed tree. Take time to visualize how lovely this species will appear as a focal point in your specific landscape. Soon you’ll be enjoying the elegant sweep of its branches from every angle!