American Beech
Fagus grandifolia · Fagaceae (Beech family)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Leaf Morphology
Leaf Type
Simple, deciduous
Shape
Elliptic to ovate with an acuminate apex
Margin
Coarsely serrate or dentate with distinct teeth at the vein endings
Arrangement
Alternate on short petioles
Venation
Pinnate with extremely straight, prominent parallel veins terminating at each marginal tooth
Key Features
Straight parallel lateral veins ending directly in sharp teeth and elliptic leaf blade shape
Description
Large deciduous tree with smooth, light gray bark, small nut fruits enclosed in burrs, and golden-bronze autumn foliage
Habitat
Understory and canopy of mature deciduous forests in moist, well-drained soils
Native Range
Eastern North America from Canada down to the Gulf Coast
Identified on 10/14/2026