American Beech Tree

American Beech (Fagus grandifolia)
Height: 70 feet Spread: 50 feet Sunlight: Full sun Hardiness Zone: 4b
 
Description: The American Beech is a natural beauty, known as one of the most stately large shade trees you can have in your yard. It is rather particular about growing conditions, requiring rich soil and adequate moisture. This tree performs best in a setting that mimics its natural habitat.
 
Ornamental Features:
Foliage: Dark green deciduous foliage emerges gray in spring on a tree with an oval habit of growth. The serrated pointy leaves turn an outstanding harvest gold in the fall.
Bark: Smooth silver bark is extremely showy and adds significant winter interest.
 
Landscape Attributes:
Deciduous tree with a shapely oval form.
Average texture that blends into the landscape but can be balanced by one or two finer or coarser trees or shrubs for an effective composition.
Relatively low-maintenance tree; best pruned in late winter once the threat of extreme cold has passed.
Deer don't particularly care for this plant and will usually leave it alone in favor of tastier treats.
No significant negative characteristics.
 
Recommended Uses:
Shade
 
Planting & Growing:
Grows to about 70 feet tall at maturity, with a spread of 50 feet.
Low canopy with a typical clearance of 5 feet from the ground, making it unsuitable for planting under power lines.
Grows at a slow rate and can live to a ripe old age of 120 years or more, making it a heritage tree for future generations.
Thrives in full sunlight.
Requires evenly moist, well-drained soil for optimal growth. Will die in standing water. May require supplemental watering during periods of drought or extended heat.
Not particular about soil pH but grows best in rich soils.
Quite intolerant of urban pollution; inner-city or urban streetside plantings are best avoided. Will benefit from being planted in a relatively sheltered location.
This species is native to parts of North America.