Because of its narrow growth habit, a maximum of 3 metres wide, this tree is ideal for places where space is limited or where a tree of tight shape is required. It has a height at maturity of 20 to 25 metres and is shallow rooting, so it's sensitive to winter road salt. It requires a broad clear area around the trunk or a position in a plant bed. The leaves are dark green and change to yellow and brown in autumn. Beechnuts or 'mast' also develop in autumn. Ideally soils should be well-drained, humus rich and not too wet. Cultivar Fagus sylvatica 'Dawyck Purple' has dark purple foliage and 'Dawyck Gold' has light green foliage which sprouts yellow. The common Fagus sylvatica and the red-leaved Fagusm sylvatica 'Atropunicea' are ideally suited for use as trained trees.