Fagus grandifolia
American Beech

Mature Height: 60-161'     Longevity: 400 years

 Fagus grandifolia leaf. Fagus grandifolia character art.
   

3-7 Water Range
Soil moisture tolerated by tree

3-8 Temperature Range
Hardiness Zones in which tree naturally occurs.

DEFENSE     Soil Moisture Key
3: Despite NRCS Plants database "High" drought rating, references indicate tree not usually found in very dry areas.

7: Silvics Manual says species will grow on poorly drained sites not subject to prolonged flooding. NRCS Plants database gives "low "flood tolerance. Harlow & Harrar indicates tree requires more moisture for growth than many other hardwoods. Does not tolerate prolonged flooding.

DEFENSE (from Distribution Maps)
National Audubon Society (NAS) Map: (NORTH) Solid Z3. (SOUTH) Solid Z8

Peterson Field Guide (PFG) Map: Same as NAS.


   

2   Sun Strength

9   Shade Strength

DEFENSE
Growth Rate:
Succession:
Soil Range:
Salt Tol.:
Allelopath:
Avg Height:
Max Height:

Click here for Key
2.5 = Slow
-.4 = Climax Specialist
-.1 =1 Major,Minor &Other
-.2 = Sensitive
0 = No
0 = 70'
+.2 = 161'

DEFENSE
Shade Tol.:
Succession:
Soil Range:
Salt Tol.:
Allelopath:
Avg Height:
Longevity:

Click here for Key
8 = Very Tolerant
+.7 = Climax Specialist
-.1 =1 Major,Minor &Other
-.2 = Sensitive
0 = No
0 = 70'
+.1 = 400 years

TOTAL SCORE (2.0): Not a strong competitor in full sun. Fairly narrow ecological range, growing on the best of sites.Truly a climax specialist.

TOTAL SCORE (8.5): Beech may be one of the definitive Climax species in Eastern N America. Among the most shade tolerant American trees.


   

2   Fire Strength

4   Wind Strength

DEFENSE
Base Score: none-low (Big Tree) = 2-3
Tree has very thin bark, shallow roots & is considered highly vulnerable to fire. Morphology points to very fire susceptible tree.
Final Value = 2

DEFENSE
Base Score: ???
Wood is reported to be strong & hard. Roots are generally extensive. Trunks ae relatively large for height so snappage does not appear to be an issue. Will rate as a 4 although a 3 may also be suitable. More information needed for higher level of confidence.
Final Value = 4