You can recognize beech leaves by these signs
- Leaf shape: egg-shaped, oval
- Length: 5 - 11 cm
- Width: 3 - 8 cm
- Color: common beech: green, copper beech: red, red-green
- Edge: slightly sawn
- Appearance: wavy, clearly visible veins
- Autumn color: yellow-orange, red-orange
- Arrangement: alternate
Although the common beech is also called the common beech, the leaves are green. The name red beech refers to the wood, which is slightly reddish in color.
also read
- How high is the growth of a beech per year?
- Everything about the size of a beech tree
- How can you determine the age of a beech tree?
Leaves hang on the beech for a long time
A peculiarity of the beech is the fact that the foliage does not fall off in autumn. It dries up, but often remains on the tree until the new leaves emerge. This is why beeches are well suited as hedge plants because they still offer good privacy protection even in winter.
Recognize diseases from the leaves
If the leaves show spots, if they curl up or if they dry up prematurely, this is a sign that the beech is missing something. If the leaves have dried out, you should check whether the beech tree has enough moisture or whether it is stagnant. Both of these lead to the leaves no longer receiving proper care.
Fungal diseases are often responsible for the changes in the leaves. But pests are also a threat to beech leaves.
Difference to the leaves of the hornbeam
The leaves of a hornbeam are slightly smaller than beech leaves. They are strongly sawn on the edge.
If you are not sure what the leaves are, touch the foliage. If it feels very soft and young, it is beech leaves. Hornbeam leaves are harder and look a bit older when rubbed.
Tips
Beech leaves are a very good fertilizer. If you are tending a beech tree or a beech hedge in the garden, simply leave the healthy leaves behind. It breaks down and releases valuable nutrients.
