One of my favorite trees is the iconic American Beech (Fagus grandifolia). I love its smooth, light bluish gray bark โ€” the silvery green leaf in spring that gradually changes to a dark green in summer ... Staten Island Advance: Staten Island nature: Finding majestic beech trees in our woodland Driving along Manor Road toward Rockland Avenue, through the Greenbelt, I noticed the number of young beech trees growing in the woodlands alongside the road.

Understanding the Context

Beech trees are easy to spot at this time ... Beech, genus of about 10 species of deciduous trees in the family Fagaceae native to temperate and subtropical regions of the Northern Hemisphere. Many are cultivated as ornamentals, and the attractive wood is useful for timber. Learn about beech characteristics, uses, and species.

Key Insights

Beech trees (botanical name Fagus) are tall deciduous shade trees with lime green ovate leaves, creating a dense, rounded crown. All varieties of beech trees produce small clusters of yellow-green flowers, followed by beech tree fruit or beechnuts. American beech is a large, graceful native tree, excellent for large, park-like landscapes where it has room to spread its wide, low-growing branches. The massive trunk has beautiful silver-gray bark; the dark green summer foliage turns a golden-bronze in the fall. Discover the various types of beech trees, their descriptions, and essential care tips.

Final Thoughts

Our planting guide ensures successful beech tree growth. Beech trees are favorites the world over, providing shade, great fall foliage, and wildlife value. Learn about ten of the most common beech species.