
Common Name: Purple European Beech
Fagus sylvatica ‘Swat Margaret’ — commonly called Swat Margaret Beech — is a deciduous tree valued for its refined form and attractive foliage. It develops a broad, rounded canopy with smooth gray bark and glossy leaves that emerge with purplish tones in spring, often maturing to deep green or green with subtle bronze hues as the season progresses. In fall, the foliage turns warm bronze to copper tones, adding seasonal interest.
Mature Size:
Width: 30–50 ft
Height: 40–60 ft
USDA Zones: 4a–7b
Light: Full sun to partial shade
Soil: Moist, well-drained soils; prefers slightly acidic conditions
Water: Moderate; prefers consistent moisture
Wildlife: Provides habitat and nuts for birds and small mammals
Features & Landscape Uses:
Form: Broad, rounded deciduous tree with a dense canopy
Smooth gray bark provides winter interest
Subtle seasonal foliage color adds interest throughout the year
Excellent specimen tree for lawns, parks, and large landscapes
Provides shade and structure in the landscape
Maintenance:
Low maintenance; prune when young to establish strong structure
Prefers protection from hot, dry conditions
Avoid compacted or poorly drained soils
| Plant Type: | Deciduous Tree |
| Width: | 30-50' |
| Height: | 40-60' |
| Fragrant: | Not verified |
| Fruit: | Not verified |
| Growth Rate | Slow |
| Zone: | 4–7 |
| Deer Resistant: | Yes |
| Salt Tolerant: | Not verified |
| Drought Tolerant: | No |
| Exposure: | Full Sun, Partial Shade |
| Landscape/Use: | Provide Shade, Specimen |
| Shape: | Broad Upright |
| Soil Type | Acidic, Moist well-drained |
| Flower Color: | Blue |
| Leaf Color: | Purple |
| Fall Color: | Yellow |