I woud say that
Axel is more Scandinavian than
German, but that's just my opinion and feelings about the name.
Axel is a common name in Sweden where I live, it's a very old Swedish name and pretty much considered as a classic. I like
Axel. The only thing that puts me off is that axel also is the Swedish word for shoulders. Still a good name, though. :)
I'd expect
Axel's siblings to be named
Oscar,
Erik,
Hanna,
Matilda,
Elvira.. Swedish names. So it's hard for me to pair it with something more english sounding as I have no idea how
Axel is perceived in other countries.