Beech
(fagus)
The Common Beech Fagus sylvatica is the dominant tree of woodlands in south and central England. It grows strongly on well-drained chalk soils found, for example, in The Chilterns. It does not like wet ground. It has been planted in woods, gardens and parks throughout Britain. Beech wood from The Chilterns was used as firewood for London, then when coal replaced it, for furniture. Common Beech tree identification is by its leaves, fruit and bark. It is a large tree and can grow to 40m. In some years there is a huge crop of oil-rich beech nuts. These are known as ‘mast’ years where ‘mast’ is an old word for ‘fruit of the forest’. In former times pigs were fattened up on beech nuts and acorns prior to going to market.
For more information on Beech Trees go here
For more information on Beech Trees go here