American Beech

American Beech

Common Names: beech, carolina beech, gray beech, red beech, ridge beech, stone beech, white beech, winter beech.

Genus: Fagus

Species: grandifolia

The American Beech tree grows naturally in the southern and eastern parts of the United States. It grows in deciduous forests all over Maine and northern Massachusetts. It grows best in deep, rich, moist, well-drained soils.

This tree should be reserved for large areas or naturalized settings. It may be used as a specimen or allowed to sucker and used as a hedge. American beech prefers moist, well-drained soil with a pH of 5 to 6.5. It prefers full sun but will tolerate shade. It will not tolerate wet or compacted soils. This tree has a shallow root system that makes growing grass under it difficult. Beech is prone to decay if wood is damaged and improper pruning will decrease its life span. It should be pruned in summer or early fall. American beech has no serious insect or disease problems, but nectria canker and beech scale are potential problems.

Botanical Information

Native habitat: Rich, well-drained upland woods of eastern North America.

Growth habit: Broad, spreading crown with a short trunk.

Tree size: Reaches a height of 50 to 70 feet with a spread equal to or less than the height. It can grow to 120 feet tall.

Flower and fruit: Small male and female flowers bloom on the same plant but in separate clusters. Fruit is an edible nut or nuts enclosed in a prickly covering.

Botanical Information

Native habitat: Rich, well-drained upland woods of eastern North America.

Growth habit: Broad, spreading crown with a short trunk.

Tree size: Reaches a height of 50 to 70 feet with a spread equal to or less than the height. It can grow to 120 feet tall.

Flower and fruit: Small male and female flowers bloom on the same plant but in separate clusters. Fruit is an edible nut or nuts enclosed in a prickly covering.

Additional information:

This beautiful forest tree grows best on the...