American Beech
Fagus grandifolia · Deciduous, Broadleaf, Hardwood
Plant Family
Fagaceae
Tree Category
Shade Tree, Forest Tree
Variety / Cultivar
Native species (no specific cultivar identified)
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 4-9. Adapted to temperate climates with humid summers.
About This Tree
A slow-growing, long-lived deciduous tree with a wide-spreading, rounded crown. Known for its extremely smooth, silver-gray bark and distinct, long, cigar-shaped buds. It creates dense shade through its thick canopy.
Leaf Characteristics
Simple, alternate arrangement. Elliptic to oblong-ovate shape, 2-5 inches long. Features prominent parallel veins ending in sharp incurved teeth at the margins (serrated). Dark green and waxy in summer, turning golden-bronze in autumn.
Bark Characteristics
Distinctively smooth, thin, and steel-gray even in old age. Does not become furrowed like most trees. Often targeted for 'carvings' due to its smooth surface, though this harms the tree.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Eastern North America, from Nova Scotia to Florida and west to Texas and Minnesota.
Growing Season
Buds break in mid to late spring. Flowers (catkins) appear shortly after leaves. Yellow-bronze fall color occurs in late October. Dormant in winter, often retaining dried leaves (marcescence) on younger branches.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Partial shade to full sun. Prefers moist, well-drained, acidic soils. Low drought tolerance; requires consistent moisture and is sensitive to soil compaction.
Mature Size
Height of 50-80 feet with a spread of 40-70 feet. Slow growth rate; can live for 300 to 400 years.
Special Characteristics
Edible nuts (beechmast), exceptional shade provider, high-quality timber used for flooring and furniture, and highly flammable wood even when green.
Wildlife & Ecology
Provides critical habitat and food. The small triangular nuts are a primary food source for blue jays, squirrels, black bears, and wild turkeys. Numerous moth larvae feed on the foliage.