Fagus sylvatica Swat Magret

Fagus sylvatica 'Swat Magret' is a historic variety of Beech with very dark purple foliage. It forms a large tree whose presence is matched only by its longevity. Its trunk with smooth grey bark supports a majestic crown, with a pyramidal or rounded habit. Its foliage consists of elliptical, very dark purple leaves during the season, reflecting metallic hues due to their glossy surface. Able to reach heights of over 20m, this Beech is intended for large plots of land that can accommodate its growth without restriction. It will be magnificent as a solitary tree on a lawn or in the background of a flower bed.

The Beech or Fagus is a member of the small family of Fagaceae, which owes its name to it, and includes only seven to nine genera, including the large group of Oaks (Quercus) and the Common Chestnut (Castanea sativa). There are only about ten species within the genus Fagus, with F. sylvatica being the common Beech and undoubtedly one of its most beautiful specimens. This large forest tree can reach a height of 30m, with a powerful straight trunk reaching 2m in diameter, and covered with a beautiful smooth grey bark, very ornamental in the rain. It is adorned with glossy dark green foliage, which is usually marcescent (meaning it persists on the tree in winter before falling). With relatively slow growth, it usually forms imposing forests in cool and humid climates. Horticultural varieties are quite diverse, affecting both the habit of the plant (dwarf, fastigiate, weeping, etc.) and the colour of the foliage (golden, purple, variegated, etc.).
'Swat Magret' is a very old horticultural variety, selected by the breeder Frahm in northern Germany in Elmshorn, in the heart of the largest nursery area in Europe (Pinneberg basin, just north of Hamburg), and introduced to the market as early as 1895. This Beech has a moderate annual growth rate, around 50cm in height and 40cm in width. In 10 years, it will reach approximately 7m in height and 5m in width, and at maturity, up to 22m in height and 15m in width. It is therefore suitable for large spaces and demonstrates great longevity, with a lifespan of 300 years or more, unfortunately now somewhat theoretical due to climate change. Depending on the specimens, the overall habit is conical to pyramidal, in either case, the tree's silhouette is admirable, with well-balanced proportions, justifying its planting as a solitary tree. In spring, the young leaves appear earlier than in the species, they are tinted with reddish-purple and darken as they mature, taking on a dark purple that has been so popular for over a century. The elliptical leaves borne on short petioles are larger than those of the botanical species, measuring 10cm or more in length and 7cm or more in width. Their edges are wavy and their surface has a waxy cuticle that gives them a glossy appearance, with almost metallic reflections. In autumn, the foliage lightens slightly, turning burgundy, and persists on the tree for a long time, unless the wind blows after a frost.
The tree blooms in April-May, but the very small yellow-green flowers have no ornamental interest, nor do the brown fruits, called beech nuts, which follow and ripen in September-October. On the other hand, the very smooth, beautiful light grey bark, is ornamental, especially in rainy weather, which enhances its beautiful colour.

Fagus sylvatica 'Swat Magret' is one of those varieties intended to form large specimens in parks and large gardens. Plant it as a solitary tree on a large lawn, alongside other trees with colourful foliage, particularly golden ones, such as Gleditsia triacanthos 'Sunburst', an American Honey Locust without the dangerous thorns of the species, but just as graceful with its finely divided leaflets. Its summer flowering is discreet but nectar-rich. For a similar contrast, with the advantage of a more ornamental and fragrant flowering, Robinia pseudoacacia 'Frisia' is also a very good choice. In slightly acidic soil, you can opt for Liquidambar styraciflua, whose dimensions can rival those of your Beech. The American Sweetgum will create a permanent colour contrast with its beautiful palmate green leaves in the season, which turn purple, red, and orange in autumn.