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Public Plant Profile

American Beech

Fagus grandifolia

Category: Deciduous Tree • Beech

American Beech is a majestic tree known for its shade and attractive foliage, perfect for large landscapes.

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Mature Height: 16–35 meters

Light: Part Sun/Part Shade

Zone: Zones 4-9

Maintenance: Low

Growth Rate: Slow

Season of Interest: Multi-season

Foliage: Deciduous

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Bold Outdoors Verified Insight

Designed & Reviewed by

Josh Graber

Owner and Landscape Designer · Kansas State University · 25+ Years Experience

B.S. in Horticulture and Landscape Design – Kansas State University

25+ years of industry experience

Description

The American Beech is a large deciduous tree known for its smooth, gray bark and dense canopy. It produces edible nuts and is often found in mixed forests.

Ideal Conditions

Thrives in partial to full shade and prefers moist, well-drained soils. It can adapt to various soil types.

Soil Preferences

Requires well-drained soil with moderate moisture. Prefers slightly acidic to neutral pH and is adaptable to different soil conditions.

Sun Needs

Part Sun/Part Shade

Landscape Guidance

Landscape Use

specimenshade tree

Special Features

Attractive foliagesmooth gray bark

Wildlife Value

Provides habitat and food for various wildlife.

Resistance / Tolerance

Moderate drought tolerance, shade tolerant

Notes from Our Designer

Ideal for large landscapes due to its size. Provides excellent shade and can be used in naturalistic settings.

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Design Ideas Using This Plant

Use this page to get a feel for where American Beech may fit in the landscape, then explore similar plants below for more ideas on form, texture, and overall planting style.

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Helpful Next Steps

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is American Beech a good fit for Kansas City landscapes?

That depends on sun exposure, moisture, spacing, and how the plant will be used in the overall design. Bold Outdoors evaluates those practical conditions before recommending a plant broadly.

How should homeowners use this plant information?

Use the plant profile as a planning tool for size, conditions, and visual role, then connect it to the broader landscape design and installation plan for the property.

Next Step

Ready to plan your landscape?

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