This beautiful specimen tree from Germany has the deepest and darkest, long-lasting purple foliage color. This spectacular color lasts throughout the summer. The foliage breaks bud about a week later than most others do, which may be beneficial to areas with late frosts. A young 'Spaethiana' is very narrow, but will widen slowly with age. In a ten year period, one can expect 'Spaethiana' to grow about five feet, and like all beeches (except for Tricolor), should be planted in full sun. Zone 4 - 7