American beech grows 100 feet tall and spreads 50 to 70 feet. The tree casts dense shade and has a shallow root system. Drooping lower branches make it difficult to grow anything beneath the tree.
American beech is intolerant of city conditions, difficult to transplant but does tolerate shearing.
The tree prefers a sunny location in sandy, loam soil. The main ornamental features are smooth gray bark, the golden fall color, and the growth habit of mature trees. Visuals associated with this text. This information is for educational purposes only. References to commercial products or trade names does not imply endorsement by MSU Extension or bias against those not mentioned.