Copper (Purple) Beech - A large, majestic, native tree, and one of the best for calcareous soils, reaching their maximum size if planted in deep, well drained soils. Also excellent for hedging. It has broadly elliptical, lustrous, coppery to deep purple leaves which turn copper-red in autumn. Small, yellow-green flowers appear in spring, followed by bristly fruits in autumn, which are edible. Plant in full sun or partial shade, in moist, well drained soil, avoiding heavy clay. Hardiness rating H6.