145. Chapter House Tree
A striking tree helps define its striking location in South Wales.
The contrast between Arcadian Margam Park and industrial Port Talbot, separated by the M4, could not be greater. Margam is an expansive former country estate which includes the ruins of twelfth-century Margam Abbey, where you can experience the wonderful Chapter House Tree. It is a vast fern-leaved beech whose layering branches sweep to the ground like flying buttresses, mirroring those of the neighbouring twelve-sided chapter house ruins, forming a dense natural dome.
Species details
Fern-leaved beech
Fagus sylvatica 'Asplenifolia'
Where to find it
Margam Park, Port Talbot SA13 2TJ
///topic.signified.bullion | 51.562621, -3.730511
Fern-leaved beech notes
There are dozens of beech cultivars, perhaps the copper beech with its handsome purple leaves is the most frequent and conspicuous, but other, less common varieties also have their charms. Top of the pile in my opinion is the fern-leaved beech with its delicate incised leaves, quite unlike the regular oval shape of most beeches. When these trees mature, their vast feathery canopies can be spectacular.
Urban Tree Festival
The Urban tree Festival kicks off in two weeks time, and there are dozens of fascinating events to join. The programme is here including a tree walk I’m leading around Southwark Park on Sunday 11th May. Maybe see you there?