Beech trees are one of the largest deciduous trees in our region. In a protected location, for example in the forest, they will be higher than in free-standing locations. Due to their size, beech trees are only suitable as beech hedges or as individual trees in very large gardens and parks.
What size does a beech tree reach?
A fully grown beech tree reaches a height of 40 to 45 meters, a trunk diameter of up to 2 meters and a tree crown of 600 square meters. It grows around 40 to 50 centimeters per year. Beech trees are considered to be mature between 100 and 150 years old.
This is how big a beech tree gets
- Height: 40 meters, occasionally 45 meters
- Treetop: 600 square meters
- Trunk: up to 2 meters in diameter
- Growth per year: 40 to 50 centimeters
The beech tree develops a very even tree crown. In a fully grown tree, the crown reaches a size that can shade 600 square meters.
If the beech tree is free, it usually doesn't grow quite as tall. In the forest, however, where the trunk is protected by other trees, it can reach a size of 45 meters.
The annual growth of a beech tree
The beech tree sprouts for the first time in spring. During this first shoot, it increases an average of 40 centimeters in height and around 35 centimeters in width.
The second shoot in July is between 20 and 30 centimeters.
When is a beech tree fully grown?
A beech tree that is 100 to 150 years old is considered to be fully grown. In the first few years the growth of beech trees is much stronger. From the age of 100 or more, it no longer increases in size so much.
Mannbar is a 40 year old beech tree. This means that only from this age does it develop fruit from which new trees germinate.
The prerequisite for flowering and subsequent fruit is that the tree is not pruned too heavily. When planted as a hedge, a beech tree grows between 70 and 400 centimeters high.
Growing beech as a bonsai
Beech trees tolerate pruning very well. Not only as a hedge, they can be shortened to the desired size. They are also very suitable for growing as bonsai. To care for it as a bonsai, not only the crown but also the roots are trimmed.
Tip
Beech trees can live up to 300 years. In some cases even older trees have been found. Beech is used as timber until it is 200 years old.
