American Beech
Fagus grandifolia · Fagaceae (Beech and Oak family)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Leaf Morphology
Leaf Type
Simple, deciduous leaf
Shape
Elliptical to ovate with an acuminate tip and cuneate to rounded base
Margin
Serrate with distinct, sharp, incurved teeth at the end of each vein
Arrangement
Alternate along the twig with a short, stout petiole
Venation
Pinnate with prominent, straight, parallel lateral veins running directly from the central midrib to each marginal tooth
Key Features
Distinguished by its smooth, elephant-hide gray bark, cigar-shaped sharp winter buds, and leaves with straight, prominent parallel veins terminating in sharp marginal teeth.
Description
The American Beech is a majestic deciduous tree known for its smooth, steel-gray bark, highly recognizable even in winter.
Habitat
Rich, moist, well-drained upland soils in deciduous hardwood forests, often found in deep shade and understories
Native Range
Native to eastern North America, spanning from Nova Scotia west to Ontario and Wisconsin, and south to eastern Texas and northern Florida