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 Hardiness Zones 4-9; adaptable to various climates but sensitive to soil compaction and salt.
About This Tree
A stately, large-canopy forest tree known for its wide-spreading, rounded crown and extremely smooth, silver-gray bark. It grows slowly but can become a massive specimen with a dense shade-producing canopy.
Leaf Characteristics
Simple, alternate arrangement; ovate to oblong shape, 2-5 inches long. Features distinct parallel veins ending in sharp incurved teeth at the margins (serrated). Summer color is dark green, turning golden-bronze in fall; often exhibits marcescence (holding dead leaves through winter).
Bark Characteristics
Remarkably smooth and thin; silver-gray in color. Unlike most trees, the bark remains smooth even as the tree reaches great age and size, though it is highly susceptible to 'beech bark disease' and carving damage.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Eastern North America, from Nova Scotia to Florida and west to Texas.
Growing Season
Leafs out in late spring (April-May) with bright green foliage; blooms simultaneously with wind-pollinated catkins. Enters dormancy in late autumn after holding golden-bronze leaves.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full sun to partial shade; prefers deep, moist, well-drained loamy soils. Moderate drought tolerance once established but prefers consistent moisture.
Mature Size
Height of 50-80 feet with a similar spread of 40-70 feet. Slow growth rate; can live for 300-400 years.
Special Characteristics
Highly ornamental smooth bark; excellent fall color; valuable timber used for flooring and furniture; edible triangular nuts (beechnuts).
Wildlife & Ecology
High ecological value. Provides beechnuts (mast) for bears, squirrels, turkeys, and blue jays. Serves as a nesting site for cavity-dwelling birds and a host for various lepidoptera larvae.