Beech ‘Black Swan’ 175/200cm (10L)

The Beech ‘Black Swan’ is a truly spectacular ornamental tree that commands attention with its dramatic, almost black foliage and graceful weeping form. This Dutch selection of Fagus sylvatica from the Atropurpurea Group offers something genuinely different for discerning gardeners – a relatively compact purple beech with an architectural presence that works beautifully as a standalone specimen.

What sets ‘Black Swan’ apart is its extraordinary colouring. In spring, new leaves emerge in copper tones that shimmer in the sunlight, creating a warm glow against the dark branches. As the season progresses, these leaves transform through various shades of purple before reaching their full summer glory – a deep purplish-black that’s darker than any other purple beech variety. This intense, near-black foliage creates a striking focal point that draws the eye and provides a dramatic backdrop for lighter-coloured planting.

The growth habit of ‘Black Swan’ is equally impressive. Unlike spreading beech trees, this cultivar forms a narrow, upright silhouette with a rising central leader and vigorously weeping branches that cascade elegantly downwards. This distinctive form creates a fountain-like effect that adds movement and grace to the garden. The oval to ovate leaves measure 4-9 cm and are notably larger than those of ‘Purple Fountain’, another weeping purple beech, giving ‘Black Swan’ a bolder, more substantial appearance.

At maturity, ‘Black Swan’ reaches approximately 15 metres in height with a spread of just 3-4 metres, making it an excellent choice for medium to large gardens where space may be limited. Its relatively narrow spread means you can enjoy the drama of a substantial tree without sacrificing too much garden space, and its vertical emphasis draws the eye upward, creating a sense of height and grandeur.

Care Guide for British Climate

‘Black Swan’ thrives in British conditions and is remarkably adaptable. Plant in full sun to partial shade, though the deepest foliage colour develops in sunnier positions. This beech tolerates most soil types, including chalk and clay, provided drainage is reasonable. Avoid waterlogged sites, as beech trees prefer moisture-retentive but well-drained conditions.

Water regularly during the first two growing seasons to establish a strong root system, particularly during dry spells. Once established, ‘Black Swan’ is reasonably drought-tolerant, though young trees benefit from watering during extended dry periods in summer.

Pruning is rarely necessary beyond removing any dead, damaged, or crossing branches in late winter. The natural weeping form develops without intervention, though you may wish to remove lower branches as the tree matures to showcase the cascading habit. Beech trees respond well to formative pruning when young if you need to shape the structure.

Apply a balanced fertiliser in early spring and mulch around the base with organic matter to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Keep the mulch clear of the trunk to prevent rot. ‘Black Swan’ is generally pest and disease resistant, though beech aphids may occasionally appear. These rarely cause lasting damage and natural predators usually keep populations in check.

Ultimate height
Higher than 12 metres

Time to ultimate height
20–50 years

Ultimate spread
4–8 metres

Please note: Decorative pots shown are for display purposes only. Your tree will be supplied in a standard plastic nursery pot shown in the other pictures.