Fagus grandifolia

Common Names

American Beech, Beech, Beechnut Tree, White Beech, Red Beech, Ridge Beech, Carolina Beech, Gray Beech, North American Beech, Indiana Native American Beech, American Beech Tree

Summary

American Beech is a native eastern North American deciduous tree that typically reaches 50–80 feet in height with a broad, spreading crown. It features smooth, light gray bark and dark green leaves that turn golden-bronze in autumn and may persist into winter, with triangular nuts enclosed in prickly husks ripening in autumn that form a wildlife mast. Prefers moist, well-drained, acidic soils and tolerates full sun to partial shade, but not wet soils. Has a shallow root system requiring ample space in large landscapes. Propagation is by seed. Commonly used as a specimen or large shade tree in expansive landscapes, and suitable for naturalized areas, parks, or large properties. Hardy in USDA zones 4 through 9; transplanting is difficult. Occasional pests and diseases such as beech bark disease and beech scale may occur.

Lifecycle

Perennial

Height

600-840 inches

Spread

40-60 feet

Hardiness Zones

Zones 3-9

Sunlight Requirements

Ideally Full Sun, tolerates Partial Sun and Partial Shade, Full Shade is not an ideal condition.

Soil Type

Acidic, well-drained soil

Soil Drainage

Moist but well-drained soil.

Soil pH

Tolerates all pH levels

Bloom Color

Insignificant

Bloom Time

Spring (March–May)

Foliage Color

Dark green, turning golden bronze in fall.

Fall Foliage Color

Yellow to Golden Bronze

Leaf Lifecycle

Deciduous

Growth Rate

Slow growth rate; annual diameter increment about 1.8–2.3 mm per year in undisturbed second-growth stands and about 3.8–4.8 mm per year in trees released by partial cuttings.

Seasons of Interest

Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter

Propagation Methods

Seeds, Layering, Root sprouts/suckers, Grafting or budding

Attracts Wildlife

Bees, butterflies, other pollinators, and birds are attracted to Fagus grandifolia.