Fagus grandifolia    

American Beech

Family:  Fagaceae
Zone:  3-9                               Average Size:  60’H x 50’W

Identification:

-Simple, ovate leaf with toothed, undulating margin and prominent veins
-Leaves are bright green in spring, turning dark green in summer and brown in autumn, persisting on tree through winter
-Long cigar shaped buds in late autumn through spring
-Smooth silvery gray bark on mature specimens.

Note:   One of the most loved native trees of the eastern United States.  Found in shady environments along small streams in hilly terrain.  Fagus grandifolia is very sensitive to soil and environmental conditions making it difficult to cultivate in urban conditions.
 
Campus Location: School of Renewable Natural Resources, east lawn.