January Plant Spotlight: The American Beech

The American Beech, Fagus grandiflora

A vital character of hardwood forests, the American Beech is a winter showstopper and wildlife powerhouse. It holds on to its leaves for most of winter, offering wild seasonal color. To say it benefits wildlife is a drastic understatement. This tree supports, via shelter and food, up to forty species of birds, mammals, and insects. Offer it lots of room to grow. It will thrive in many conditions as long as the soil is well drained. You can visit this tree also in nearby forests, often growing in colonies. Gorgeous, slow and resilient, the American Beech is a faithful ally to grow and learn from.

Read Jess Cole's January column here.