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
Serrate with prominent teeth corresponding to vein ends
Arrangement
Alternate on short petioles
Venation
Pinnate with very straight, highly prominent parallel lateral veins
Key Features
Straight parallel veins ending in distinct teeth and an elliptic-ovate blade shape
Description
Large deciduous tree with smooth, light gray bark and dark green summer foliage transitioning to golden bronze in autumn
Habitat
Mesic hardwood forests on moist, well-drained soils under shaded conditions
Native Range
Native to eastern North America from Canada down to the Gulf Coast
Identified on 10/20/2026