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Beech Facts

Beech Facts
Beech is deciduous tree that belongs to the family Fagaceae. There are 11 species of beech that can be found in the northern parts of Europe, Asia and North America. Beech usually grows on chalk, limestone and other well-drained and fertile types of soil. Young plants can survive in partially shaded areas, while mature trees require direct sunlight. Beech tree is rarely seen in urban areas because it cannot grow in the atmosphere rich in carbon monoxide. People cultivate beech because of its ornamental morphology and high-quality wood that can be used for numerous purposes. Beeches are prone to fungal diseases that may induce rotting of the root and eventually death of the whole tree. Beeches are numerous and widely spread type of trees. They are not on the list of endangered species.
Interesting Beech Facts:
Beech can reach 80 to 100 feet in height. Multiple slender branches form broad, dome-shaped crown.
Bark is light gray or greenish in color. Best known morphological feature of beech is its smooth bark that can be seen both in young and mature plants.
Beech has oval leaves that are finely toothed on the edges. Newly formed leaves are brightly green and covered with hairs. Older leaves lack hairs; they are dark green in color.
Fallen leaves degrade slowly and create layer that prevents development of the herbaceous plants.
Beech develops individual male and female flowers on the same plant (monoecious plant). Male flowers are yellowish with red borders. They are arranged in the catkins that hang from the branches. Female flowers are yellow and arranged in pairs.
Beech blooms in spring, from April to May, shortly after leaves appear. Flowers are pollinated by the wind.
Beech produces nut known as beechnut or mast. It appears in pairs, located in the spiny husk divided in few lobes. Beechnut contains high level of tannic acid which creates bitter taste of the fruit.
Beechnut was used as food for the cattle in the past. Many forest mammals and birds consume beechnuts as a regular part of their diet.
Wood is used in the production of furniture, floorings, musical instruments (such as drums) and plywood.
Bark contains different aromatic substances which can be used to improve the taste of beer. Leaves are used in the manufacture of gin. They add color and sweetness to the final product.
Beech wood was used as fuel in the industry of glass and iron in the past.
Leaves and bark contain pigments which are used for dyeing of fabrics.
Fresh beech leaves can be used in human diet. They are usually consumed in the form of salad. Beechnut is rich source of oil that is suitable for human consumption.
Certain countries use beech leaves instead of feathers as a stuffing for the pillows.
Beech can survive over 400 years.


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