American Beech

Fagus grandifolia

Overview

The American Beech Tree is a native to the eastern United States and southeastern Canada. This tree is very slow growing and can reach up to 80 feet tall and 70 feet wide. The American Beech can be spotted by its short trunk and rounded shape on the top.

Cultivation

To thrive this tree needs moist well drained soil, full to partial sun exposure, and the soil has to have an acidic pH. However, this tree is very common in the Cincinnati area, it is mildly toxic to humans and animals. 

Biodiversity Sustained

The tree provides a very important food and shelter source for lots of native species. The bark is home to a wide variety of fungi and its seeds are often eaten by mice, squirrels, and birds. Its round fluffy shape makes it the perfect home for a variety of local birds to build their nests. Some features of this tree are its grey smooth bark, dark green leaves with a pointed tip, and its parallel leaf veins.