Beech
Recognizing beech
Beech is recognized by:
- Its trunks reaching 20-40 meters tall.
- Its gray bark
- Its oval, quite ribbed leaves
- Its fruit, the beechnut
Sites favored by Beech
Temperatures
Annual average of 3-6°C. Can usually withstand temperatures of -5 to +20°C. Does not tolerate excess heat. Beech is a sciophilous species so likes shaded areas and high atmospheric humidity. However, it adapts to different soil types.
Rainfall
Annual average between 600 and 1,000Â mm per year. Requires a constant presence of water in the soil. This species thrives in areas where mist is frequent.
Soils
Beech likes light, well-drained, cool soils. It is found on chalky and/or sandy soils. Beech is sensitive to waterlogged soils. It is found in flat areas and at altitudes up to around 1,500Â meters (although, beyond 800Â m, it produces hard wood). One distinguishing factor: fresh, drained soils in a shaded environment. Beech is sensitive to strong winds.
Root development of the beech
- Oblique, taproot system
Growth and production of beech
- Dynamic growth:
- Production of 5-15Â m3/ha/year (depending on site).
Beech plantation
| Density | Spacing | Benefits and drawbacks |
| 800 to 1,500 plants/ha | plantation 8 × 8 or 8 × 15 or 8 × 10 | Adapts to plantations in the open (with a windbreak) in strips or under shelter. Windbreak essential. Not planted on bare surfaces. |
Beech wood
- Light brown heart and indistinct sapwood
- Easy sawing, slow drying with risk of deformation
- Tender heartwood.
- Excellent for firewood and charcoal.
- Also used for parquet flooring, fiber/particulate panels, joinery, cabinetwork, etc.
- Trade name: Beech
Health
Does not suffer from any significant disease but watch for the appearance of canker.
