American Beech

Why it rocks:

American Beech is a sight to behold! This majestic beauty, once fully mature, will stop you in your tracks. Its large, low-sweeping branches reach outward, sometimes growing as wide as it is tall, and are complemented by its smooth gray bark. Spring ushers in the emergence of small, cigar-shaped buds, with their delicate leaves unfurling a refreshing spring green hue before becoming a dark green, providing a rich, dense canopy of shade for the summer months. Small, yellow-green flowers give way to edible beechnuts, which ripen in the fall. The nuts are enjoyed as is by wildlife, providing a nutrient-rich snack, and once properly prepared, are edible by humans. With autumn's arrival, its leaves subtly transform from glossy green into a warm canopy of yellow-gold to orangey-bronze hues. As the seasons change, American Beech's leaves will fade to a fawn brown, holding onto its branches well into winter. This quality will provide a splash of color to your winter landscape. American Beech is a slow grower, but it's well worth the wait. This gentle giant's commanding presence will draw the eye in and add beauty to the landscape for generations to come!

Where to put it:

Imagine transforming your landscape with the breathtaking beauty of American Beech! This slow-growing native tree thrives in wide-open spaces, beckoning its onlookers to come closer. Picture this tree growing as a centerpiece in community parks, gracing the lush greens of golf courses, or standing majestically in a cemetery where it captivates all who pass by. With its cathedral-like structure and soothing presence, American Beech is more than just a tree; it's a sanctuary. It brings a sense of peace, serving as a poignant legacy tree, while offering a serene spot for visitors. Keep in mind this magnificent tree needs its space! Avoid planting it near overhead power lines, roadways, or in cramped yards. In addition, this tree prefers to stay clear of areas prone to flooding, such as near ponds, lakes, and river banks. To allow it to flourish and reach its full, glorious potential, please be sure to select a location at least 20 to 25 feet away from any nearby structures.

What it needs:

American Beech is a native tree that is adaptable to various soil conditions and ultimately performs best in well-drained, moist soil. This graceful beauty grows best in full sun to partial shade. Avoid planting on parkways and near busy roads due to the tree's intolerance of salt. American Beech is sensitive to drought and overly saturated soils. Be sure to stick to our tree care instructions for the first few growing seasons, until the tree's roots are well established.