Beech
Beech navigation
There's debate as to whether beech – botanical name Fagus sylvatica – spread naturally from southern England to Scotland after the last ice age.
This deciduous species favours chalk downlands but can also grow well on light soils. Its dense shade usually keeps the forest floor clear of undergrowth.
Facts and statistics
Here are some interesting facts about beech trees.
350 years.
Up to 40 metres. Mature trees have a dense canopy made up of many branches.
Green in spring and summer, turning first to yellow then to bronze in autumn.
The husks split to release two triangular seeds, 'nuts' or 'mast' and can be eaten. The French roast them to make a type of coffee.
Smooth, grey and delicate – making it a popular tree for lovers to carve their initials into.
98.
Europe, but not Scandinavia.
Beech wood is easily turned, fine-grained and knot-free, making it ideal for furniture making. In the past the wood was used for rifle butts, brush backs and for making shoe heels and lasts.