Fagus sylvatica Mercedes - Beech

The Fagus sylvatica 'Mercedes' is a new variety of dwarf beech, with astonishingly fringed foliage that is very light and delicate. This small tree has a spreading and rounded habit and grows very slowly, reaching only an average height of 2m (6 ft 7 in) and width of 1.50m (4 ft 11 in). Its marcescent foliage is shiny dark green. In autumn, it turns a coppery yellow before drying out, remaining attached to the branches until the new leaves appear in spring. This variety is easy to cultivate and will be ideal for a small garden.

The beech tree, known as Fagus sylvatica in Latin, is an imposing tree with a spreading habit. Its cylindrical trunk is covered with smooth light grey bark. This tree can live for several centuries. Native to central Europe and the Caucasus, it is one of the most common species in European forests. It covers 10% of forests. The Fagus sylvatica is the most popular tree grown along with oak trees. Its reddish wood is used in woodworking and for making wooden tools, toys, and firewood. It is very hardy and can reach a height of 20m (65 ft 7 in) at maturity.

The dwarf cultivar 'Mercedes' has a rounded, spreading, and bushy habit. Its dense foliage is composed of finely cut leaves that resemble willow leaves, measuring about 10cm (3.9 in) in length. They are shiny dark green and turn coppery yellow in autumn. They are marcescent, meaning they dry out while remaining on the tree until the following spring when new leaves appear. The flowers appear almost at the same time as the leaves. From April to May, barely visible cream-coloured monoecious flowers appear. The male flowers are grouped in pendant catkins. The female flowers are grouped in 2 to 4 at the end of the branches. Mature trees produce fruits called beechnuts, which are shiny brown and covered in prickles. These fruits are edible in small quantities. Mountain dwellers used to use them to make flour.

The Fagus sylvatica 'Mercedes' is a hardy, low-maintenance tree. It thrives in partial shade and non-scorching sunlight, and prefers cool and temperate climates. The soil should be moist and well-drained, with a constant level of humidity as it does not tolerate drought. Compact but sculptural, it is well-suited for small gardens and ornamental purposes on terraces and patios. Very hardy, it can replace the Japanese maple in regions with harsh winters and will fit perfectly in a Japanese-style garden. It can also make a magnificent bonsai when grown in a flat dish. Pair it with other shrubs with varied leaf colours and structures, or plant it near the house to enjoy its delicate beauty throughout the year.