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Are Beech Trees Deciduous?

Beech trees (Fagus spp.) are large, deciduous trees with a mature height of up to 90 feet. The trees are planted for their distinctive silvery bark and colorful fall foliage. Beech, with its spreading branches, is widely used as a shade tree in landscaping.

  1. Varieties

    • The most grown beech varieties are the American beech (Fagus grandifolia) and European beech (Fagus sylvatica). American beech, a native of North America, is widely used as an ornamental planting in larger landscapes with a mature height of 50 to 70 feet. European beech is smaller in size at about 50 feet and is slow growing.

    Growing Conditions

    • Beech trees adapt to a range of soil types and grow well in full sun. The trees have a moderate tolerance for shade. Beech trees often are grown as a hedge by planting close together and pruning to desired height. Irrigate the trees regularly for best growth.

    Features

    • Mature beech trees produce nuts every other year and invite wildlife. The edible nuts start to separate from the branches when they are ripe. An appearance of squirrels in the trees also is an indication that the nuts are ripe.