The southern and eastern parts of the United States is home to one of the most important tree species of nature, the American beech tree.
A mature American beech tree is known to grow up to 90-100 ft tall. One of the distinct parts of the tree are its leaves, which grow with strong veins and toothed edges. The scientific name of this tree is Fagus grandifolia. This species belongs to the deciduous family of trees. The tree bears flowers of both sexes, making it a monoecious plant.
Facts about the American Beech Tree
- Although the American beech tree is known to attain a height of approximately 100 ft, in home landscapes, it has been seen that the species rarely exceed a height of 50 ft.
- The true beauty of this tree is revealed during fall. The lush green foliage of the tree takes on a brilliant bronze hue, before fading to tan.
- This tree prefers deep, rich, moist, and well-drained soil. Also, either partial shade or full sunlight is needed to help it grow.
- As observed by experts, this tree does not do well in urban areas, probably because of the high levels of carbon monoxide in a city’s atmosphere.
- You may find it difficult to grow another plant beneath the tree. This is due to two reasons―the leaves do not spare any filtration for sunlight, and the roots of the tree grow above the earth because of its shallow root system.
- Many areas are populated with extensive groves of this tree species, because they could not be lumbered with axes or other traditional cutting tools. The tree’s tensile strength is what makes it so remarkable, where it is also heavy.
- It’s a popular choice of wood when it comes to flooring, cabinets, toys, furniture, wooden-ware, etc. Paper-manufacturing companies use a large amount of these trees for their business. Also, the wood from the tree is almost white.
- It can also be converted into tar. The main purpose of this substance is that of an additive. It helps in keeping other woods safe from rotting.
- The tree also produces nuts that form an important part of many animals’ diets. These include opossums, black bears, white-tailed deers, rabbits, ruffed grouses, red squirrels, gray squirrels, flying foxes, ruffed grouses, wild turkeys, raccoons, red/gray foxes, white tail deers, squirrels, pheasants, and black bears. These nuts are also used for commercial purposes by man.
- Another lesser know fact about this tough-as-a-cookie tree is its meaning. The native people regard this tree as a sign of tolerance, forgiveness, and acceptance.
- According to experts, the tree has a lifespan of 300-400 years.
And to conclude, aphids, leaf miners, scales, and borers, are common pests that affect the American beech tree. However, the tree has the ability to resist damage, effectively overcoming infections.