Trees
Fagus grandifolia
American beech
A substantial native shade tree with smooth gray bark, a broad canopy and bronze-gold fall leaves. Some dry leaves remain into winter, especially on young growth. Reserve a generous woodland or lawn setting for its spreading roots and crown; avoid compacting the soil around it.
At a glance
- Sun
- Dappled shade / Full sun / Part shade
- Size
- Height: 60 ft.–80 ft. · Width: 40 ft.–80 ft.
- Water
- Moist, well-drained soil
- Hardiness
- USDA zones 3–9
Sizes & prices
- #20BeechCall for price
Catalog updated September 8, 2026. This is not a live stock count; please call to confirm availability and price.
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Landscape use & tree form
- Use
- Shade tree
- Form
- Oval; Pyramidal; Rounded
- Growth rate
- Slow
- Major issues
- Beech leaf disease threatens American and European beeches. Also watch for beech bark disease, scale and stress-related borers.
- Fruit / litter
- Beechnuts and dry leaves provide seasonal litter; some leaves remain through winter.
Resistance & tolerances
- Deer
- Listed as resistant; protect young trees from browsing and antler rubbing.
- Drought
- Best with steady moisture; hot, dry sites stress foliage and shallow roots.
- Wet soil
- Avoid wet, compacted or poorly drained soil.
Resistance is not a guarantee; deer and rabbits may browse any plant.
Pollinators & wildlife
- Wildlife food
- Nuts for birds and small mammals
Native range
- Native range / parentage
- Eastern Canada to Central Mexico Species native to Kentucky.
- Tristate native status
- Species native to Kentucky.
Seasonal interest
- Foliage
- Deciduous
Growing & care
- Pruning
- Preserve the natural crown; weeping forms may need early leader training. Avoid heavy canopy opening and damage to shallow roots or thin bark.
Sources & photo credits
University of Minnesota Extension
Photo: Katja Schulz · CC BY 2.0
Image notes: American beech. Fall color. Resized and converted to WebP.
Reviewed September 22, 2026. Growing conditions vary by location.