Fagus sylvatica Asterix

The Fagus sylvatica 'Asterix' is a selection of the Common Beech that is particularly compact and only reaches a height of 1m at the age of 10. It is therefore more of a bush than a tree and fits perfectly in a small-sized garden. Its small green leaves that turn coppery bronze in autumn are a beautiful adornment. Hardy, this dwarf Beech grows in full sun or partial shade, in a wide range of soils. It can be planted in a shrub bed, as a solitary specimen, or in a container on the terrace where it will live for many years.

The 'Asterix' beech is a witches' broom, discovered on a classic Common Beech (Fagus sylvatica). The botanical term witches' broom refers to a developmental anomaly induced by a disease, often transmitted by aphids. It is characterised by the formation of intense branching, creating a dense ball with underdeveloped leaves. This 'Asterix' variety is characterised by slow growth, reduced development, and small leaves. Eventually, it forms a globular-shaped bush, almost as wide as it is tall, reaching 1.50m to 2m in height and 1.50m to 1.75m in spread. With a very dense branching, its natural form can be accentuated through appropriate pruning. Measuring about 4-5cm long, the leaves are ovate, slightly undulate, with a dentate edge. They are tender green, turning to medium green during the season, and then to yellow and coppery bronze in autumn before falling.
Hardy up to -25°C, this small tree appreciates humus-bearing soils and does not tolerate drought.

The Fagus sylvatica 'Asterix' is a charming small tree with an architectural silhouette and attractive autumn foliage that can be planted even in the smallest gardens. It can be planted alongside a Dwarf Birch (Betula nana), a ground-covering shrub whose foliage takes on magnificent shades of red-orange in autumn, a Chamaecyparis obtusa Nana Aurea with unusual foliage that persists in winter, a Mahonia Soft Caress with fern-like leaves and autumn yellow flowers. White-flowering spireas can also be planted alongside to animate the scene from early spring.

The Beech, known as Fagus sylvatica in Latin, is an imposing tree with a spreading habit. Its cylindrical trunk is covered with smooth bark of a light grey colour. This tree can live for several centuries. Native to Central Europe to the Caucasus, it is one of the most common species in European forests. It covers about 10% of forests, reaching a height of 20m at maturity. Its reddish wood is used in cabinetmaking and for the production of wooden tools and toys, as well as firewood. It is a member of the Fagaceae family, which also includes Oak, Chestnut, and a few other lesser-known genera.