A review of the genus Nothofagus has proposed that the genus be separated into four distinct genera. See Heenan P.B. & Smissen R.D. (2013). 'Revised circumscription of Nothofagus and recognition of the segregate genera Fuscospora, Lophozonia, and Trisyngyne (Nothofagaceae)'. Phytotaxa 146 (1): 131. This treatment has not as of 2017 been universally accepted, if it is accepted then this species will become Fuscospora fusca (Hook.f.) Heenan & Smissen

Common Name: Red Beech

General Information

Nothofagus fusca is an evergreen tree; specimens 30 metres or more tall are found in the wild. The straight, cylindrical bole can be up to 300cm in diameter in old trees. Mature trees often develop flanged bases with root buttresses[, ].
The tree is harvested from the wild for commercial use of its wood. It is sometimes grown as an ornamental.

Known Hazards

None known

Botanical References

, ,

Range

New Zealand - North and South Islands.

Habitat

Lowland to montane forests southwards from 37°s, on North and South Islands[].

Properties

Other Uses Rating
Habit	Evergreen Tree
Height	25.00 m
Growth Rate	Fast
Pollinators	Wind
Cultivation Status	Ornamental, Wild

Cultivation Details

Nothofagus fusca is only hardy in the warmer regions of the temperate zone, tolerating occasional temperatures falling to aound -5°c, or perhaps a bit lower. Two forms are being grown at Crarae in western Scotland (hardiness zone 7 - 8), the first is doing well whilst the second is much weaker when young but then seems to improve[]. Trees can be safely planted in all except the coldest and driest parts of Britain[, ].
Prefers an open well-drained loamy soil in a sunny position[, ]. Succeeds on most soils but dislikes calcareous soils[, ]. Prefers a pH between 5 and 7, but dislikes acid peats[].
A very ornamental tree[]
Species in this genus often have poor wind resistance in cultivation, probably because they grow so fast[].
Trees up to 4 metres tall can be successfully established, though the optimum size for transplanting is about 30 - 80cm. The roots are very sensitive to desiccation and extreme care should be taken when transplanting them[].
Plants in this genus are notably resistant to honey fungus[].

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal

None known

Other Uses

A black dye is obtained from the bark[].
The bark is a source of tannin[, ].

The heartwood varies from light brown to red-brown or cherry red; the sapwood is lighter in colour. The texture is close and even. The wood is strong, durable. It is slow and notoriously difficult to dry, but once dry is very stable. It is very easily worked, having very good machining, hand-tool working, turning, finishing, and wearing properties. It sands to a high lustre and takes finishes well. Early European uses included it as a structural utility timber, used in mining, as railway sleepers, bridge and decking timbers, fence posts, general building construction, and furniture. It is a favourite wood for woodturners because of its colour, density, and character. Especially favoured is red beech burr wood which is commonly rich cherry red in colour with birdseye markings, as well as the more wavy-grained wood obtained from the base of the tree. These types of wood are valued for decorative work because of their interesting grain patterns and colour[, , , ].

Propagation

The seed is best sown as soon as it is ripe in a cool greenhouse or cold frame. Spring-sown seed requires 2 - 3 months stratification at 1 - 5°c[]. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in a lightly shaded position in the cold frame for at least their first winter. Plant them out into their permanent positions in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts. The seed must not be allowed to dry out according to one report[] whilst another says that the seed can be stored dry at 2°c for long periods[].
Cuttings of half-ripe wood, 6 - 10cm with a heel, mid summer in a frame[].
Layering.