Fagus grandifolia

American beech

American beech is a "strikingly handsome" tree with tight, smooth and skin-like light gray bark.  This slick bark is so unique, it becomes a major identifier of the species.  Also, look for the muscular roots which often remind one of creature legs and arms. Beech bark has suffered the carver's knife through the ages. From Virgil to Daniel Boone, men have marked territory and carved the tree's bark with their initials. 

 
Photos by Kim Nix 

Start with the Tree Finder if you are not sure what kind of tree you have!

American Beech Habitat and Culture
(silvics courtesy of Silvics Manual,  USFS) 

Fire Effects On American Beech
(courtesy of  U.S. Forest Service, Fire Effects) 

From Virginia Tech w/Photos
(Big List courtesy of VT Dendrology)

North American Timber Types
(courtesy About Forestry) 

The Great American Hardwood Forest
(courtesy About Forestry) 

Recent Champion: 115' height, 138' spread, 279" circumf., Harwood, Maryland
National Register of Big Trees

Historical American Beech Photo Collection
American Memories Collection - University of Chicago

Buy a Beech Online
(Nurseries selling seedlings online)

Range Map

-The native range of American beech, USFS.

Quick Stats
Common Names:  Also also called beech

Habitat:  Moist and rich soils of uplands and well drained bottoms

Description:  American beech (Fagus grandifolia) is the only species of this genus in North America

Uses:  It wears well, is easily treated with preservatives, and is used for flooring, furniture, veneer, and containers

Image
(images courtesy Kim Nix and About.com)