Fagus sylvatica

Fagus sylvatica, the European beech or common beech, is a large deciduous tree in the beech family with smooth silvery-grey bark, large leaf area, and a short trunk with low branches. It is native to much of Europe, growing in humid climates.

The species is cultivated as an ornamental, and has been spread beyond its original range, including in North America. Numerous cultivars have been developed, including the showy copper beech, Fagus sylvatica purpurea. Although slightly toxic due to the tannins and alkaloids they contain, the nuts are consumed by animals and humans. The trees are used for timber, such as the making of furniture.