Variegated Beech

Fagus sylvatica ‘Franken’ is a slow-growing, small European beech selected for strongly variegated foliage. The new leaves can be mostly white with fine green flecks, then show more green as summer advances, making the tree a changing focal point in a sheltered garden. ## Site and seasonal interest Allow for a mature size near 10 feet tall and 6 feet wide, though it takes many years to develop. Plant it in part sun or light shade, away from hot afternoon rays that can scorch the pale leaves. Moist, well-drained soil supports steady growth. The [Dawes Arboretum profile](https://dawesarb.arboretumexplorer.org/taxon-22034.aspx) lists USDA Zone 4 hardiness and describes its slow growth and protected-site needs. [Trees and Shrubs Online](https://www.treesandshrubsonline.org/articles/fagus/fagus-sylvatica/) records the cultivar’s changing variegation through the seasons. ## Maintenance Water regularly while young and during prolonged dry spells, and keep a mulch layer over the root area without piling it against the trunk. Its naturally small scale and slow growth limit routine pruning; remove only dead or damaged branches. Shelter the tree from drying winds and strong summer sun, and leave space to appreciate the pale spring foliage as it develops.