Nothofagus menziesii aka Silver Beech

Nothofagus menziesii, or silver beech, is an evergreen New Zealand tree. It belongs to the family Nothofagaceae. Its native range covers both North Island and South Island. It grows south of about 37 degrees south latitude. Its habitats include lowland woods and mountain forests. In the subalpine zone, it can take a shrub form. It keeps its leaves throughout the year.

In cultivation, silver beech reaches about 66 feet (20 metres) tall. Its spread can reach about 39 feet (12 metres). Growth is fast, so it needs room to develop. Its evergreen crown can form a woodland garden canopy. PFAF values it as an ornamental tree. One tree carries both male and female flowers. The flowers are separate, rather than containing both sexes. Wind carries pollen between the flowers. The supplied sources give no species-level details about fruit or flowering months.

Choose a sunny site with moist soil that drains well. This tree does not grow in shade, according to PFAF. An open loam is its preferred soil. It also grows in sandy soil and clay. A soil pH of 5 to 7 suits it. It dislikes lime-rich ground and acid peat. PFAF lists USDA hardiness zones 8–11. Its British guidance favours the milder south and west. Yet it also records good growth at Crarae, western Scotland. These reports show that local growing conditions matter.

Wind exposure can cause problems in British gardens. PFAF links poor wind resistance there with its fast growth. Take care when planting, as the roots dry out easily. Smaller young trees offer the best size for transplanting. PFAF favours plants about 1–2.6 feet (0.3–0.8 metres) tall. Plant out in late spring or early summer after frost. Fresh seed, semi-ripe cuttings, and layering offer ways to raise plants. Spring-sown seed needs a cold treatment before sowing.

The bark supplies tannin and a black dye. The wood combines strength, toughness, and some spring. Uses include building blocks and cases for wine. It does not last well outdoors. PFAF records no known food or medicinal uses. It also lists no known hazards. That statement does not establish that every part is safe to eat. The supplied evidence gives no species-specific account of pests or diseases.