SCIENTIFIC NAME(s):

Fagus grandifolia

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COMMON NAME(s):

American Beech

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GENERAL DESCRIPTION:

In some Beech trees, color varies from nearly white sapwood to reddish-brown heartwood. Sometimes, there is no clear line of demarcation between heartwood and sapwood, with the sapwood being upwards of roughly 7 to 13 cm (3 to 5 in.) wide. The wood has little figure and is of close, uniform texture. It has no characteristic taste or odor.

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REGIONAL DISTRIBUTION:

Only one species of Beech, American Beech (Fagus grandifolia), is native to the United States. It grows in the eastern one-third of the United States adjacent to the Canadian provinces. The greatest production of Beech lumber is in the Central and Middle Atlantic States.

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PHYSICAL PROPERTIES:

Beech is typically a pale cream color, sometimes with a pink or brown hue. Veneer tends to be slightly darker colored, as slicing the veneer usually requires the wood to be prepared with steam, which gives the wood a more golden tone. Flatsawn surfaces tend to be very plain, while quartersawn surfaces exhibit a silvery fleck pattern.

 

WORKING PROPERTIES:

The wood of Beech is classed as heavy, hard, strong, high in resistance to shock, and highly suitable for steam bending. Beech shrinks substantially and therefore requires careful drying. It machines smoothly, is an excellent wood for turning, wears well, and is rather easily treated with preservatives.

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ALTERNATIVES:

None

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COMMON USES:

Lumber, veneer, flooring, crates/pallets, railroad ties, musical instruments, furniture, turnery, and other small wooden objects like handles. When treated with preservative, beech is suitable for railway ties.

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GRADE:

NHLA Standard Grade Rules

 

 

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