American Beech

A species of beech tree native to the eastern United States and extreme southeast of Canada. 

• Grows to about 50 - 70 ft with a trunk diameter of up to 4 ft. 

• Produces nuts which are irregularly triangular, shiny brown and edible, found in pairs within a woody husk covered with spines, 1/2 to 3/4 inch long, maturing in the fall.

• The leaves are oblong-elliptic to oblong-ovate in shape, while their margins have widely spaced incurved teeth.

• Its bark is very smooth and light gray, remaining so as the tree ages.

• Fun fact:  It isn't until the tree is 40-60 years old before they start producing nuts. Beech trees are often targets of graffiti which can harm the tree.