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L: American Beech

Fagus grandifolia

This long-lived hardwood is native to the eastern United States. It is highly shade tolerant and prefers moist soil. Older trees can develop large hollows in their trunks which are often used for shelter by wildlife. Its triangular beech nuts are enjoyed by many wildlife species, including mice, chipmunks, and many birds.

 

Beech bark is gray and remains uniformly thin and smooth even as the tree grows and ages. Its leaves are elliptical, with distinct teeth at the end of each vein.

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