Fagus sylvatica 'Purpurea', commonly known as the Purple Beech, is a deciduous tree known for its striking deep purple leaves. This cultivar of the European Beech typically grows to a height of 30 to 50 feet and has a broad, rounded crown. The leaves emerge in spring, turning a vibrant purple that can deepen to almost black in summer, providing a stunning contrast in gardens and landscapes. The Purple Beech thrives in well-drained, fertile soils and prefers full sun to partial shade. It is often used as a specimen tree or in hedges due to its dense foliage. In autumn, the leaves turn a rich bronze before falling, adding seasonal interest to the landscape.