We often talk about architectural heritage, but a little less about plant heritage. And yet, in Hellemmes, a town associated with Lille, a tree has been watching over the neighborhood for over a century. It's a tree that many people pass by without necessarily knowing its story, until today.
A centenary beech tree that commands respect
Located in the heart of the François-Mitterrand park, this weeping beech (Fagus sylvatica laciniata) impresses with both its size and elegance. Standing sixteen meters tall, with a 3.2-meter circumference, it has a perfectly shaped conical silhouette and delicately lobed leaves that give it an almost surreal look on sunny days. Planted around 1870, well before the nearby Fanyau castle was built (now the local town hall), it is estimated to be 155 years old.
In spring, its bright green leaves resemble fern fronds. In autumn, it adorns itself with vibrant reds and oranges. This is a sight well-known to regular park visitors, who have grown to see it as an emotional landmark for the locals.
A National Award for an Iconic Tree
This remarkable beech tree has just received the Jury Prize at the Tree of the Year 2025 contest. Organized by the magazine Terre Sauvage, the National Forestry Office (ONF), and the A.R.B.R.E.S association, this contest aims to highlight the trees that shape our landscapes and tell our collective story. This year, over 120 entries from all over France were in the running.
Classified as a remarkable tree in 2022 for its regional rarity and exceptional morphological qualities, the Hellemmes beech has charmed the jury with its story, beauty, and its place in local life. While it didn’t win the Public Prize, awarded to a ginkgo tree from Loiret, it stands out as one of the great symbols of the arboreal heritage of Hauts-de-France.
A local pride, and a precious reminder
Beyond the trophy, this award highlights one essential thing: Hauts-de-France is brimming with natural treasures that are often overlooked. Urban parks, lines of ancient trees, public gardens… these everyday elements greatly contribute to the quality of life and the identity of the neighborhoods.
For the residents of Hellemmes and Lille, this centennial beech tree is more than just an award-winning tree. It stands as a silent witness to multiple generations, local celebrations, childhood strolls, and the changing seasons. A living heritage, simply put.
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