American Beech Fagus grandiflora (limited availability)

Large-sized | Deciduous | Height: 60-80 ft.| Spread: 40-80 ft

This large tree is known for its low-hanging branches and smooth grey bark. It has alternating arranged leaves with a serrated edge that turn dark green. In fall, the leaves first turn a golden-yellow and then a beautiful coppery color, often lasting well into the winter. Additionally, the tree produces a brown or copper fruit containing a triangular nut that ripens in the fall. One trick to identifying this species is to look for the large buds that jut out from the twigs on a year-round basis. 

Although the beech tree may not produce nuts for several decades, they serve as sources of food for animals like deer, chipmunks, woodpeckers, and many songbirds. Historically, the nuts were said to be eaten by passenger pigeons, who would flock to the beech tree branches for a taste of its fruits in such quantities that the branches would snap. 

For more information on this beautiful species, visit https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/fagus-grandifolia/