American Beech

Fagus grandifolia Fagaceae

Growth habit

Tree

Perennation

Long-lived polycarpic perennial

Native distribution

Native to the Finger Lakes Region, Eastern N. America

Location

Mundy Wildflower Garden, Beech Collection, Bald Hill and Caroline Pinnacles, Fischer Old-growth Forest, Slaterville 600, McDaniel Meadow, Woods, and Swamp, McLean Bogs, Eames Bog, Purvis Road Wetlands Natural Area, Ringwood Ponds, South Hill Swamp, Tarr-Young Preserve

Source of plant

Doug Goldman, Princeton Nurseries, Princeton Nurseries

Description

Plants 50-70' in height with a maximum of 100-120'; spread is usually less than or equal to height. Barkthin, smooth, light bluish-gray almost silvery on young stems; of a similar nature on mature trees butdarker. Fall color beautiful golden bronze, and the leaves (especially on the lower portion of the tree)often persist into winter.

USDA Hardiness Zone

3

Special characteristics

bark, winter interest

Status

L4|S5|G5