The American Beech Tree
The American beech is a beautiful and stately tree. They prefer rich bottomland and upland soils. These trees are shade-tolerant and will gradually dominate the forest where conditions are favorable. It is easily identified by its smooth gray bark, long pointed buds and strongly veined leaves.
The
triangular nuts of the American beech are an important food for squirrels,
chipmunks, black bears, ruffed grouse, wood ducks and wild turkey, to
mention just a few. The expandable cheeks of the chipmunk make it possible
to carry 32 beech nuts (see insert) at one time.
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