At a glance
Essentials
- Size
- Typical height of 25-35 m, with maxima up to 50 m and trunk diameter of 1.5-3 m. The range may vary with age, sex and population.
- Distribution
- Europe, from southern Scandinavia to southern Italy and the Iberian Peninsula.
- Habitat
- Wet climate forests, often in mountainous areas.
- Activity
- Anemophilous pollination and abundant fruit production after warm summers.
- Diet
- Its fruits (acorns) are consumed by wildlife and, to a lesser extent, by humans.
- Conservation
- Low concern (IUCN).
Observation guide
What to look for
- 01
Smooth bark of ash-grey colour that does not peel with age.
- 02
Oval leaves with scalloped margins and nearly horizontal arrangement.
- 03
Tetrahedral fruits (acorns) protected by a cup with separated bristles.
Lighting, age and viewing angle can hide features. If identification affects consumption, handling or conservation, consult specialist sources.
Ecology
Description and characteristics
The Fagus sylvatica is a large deciduous tree belonging to the Fagaceae family. Its growth is slow and it can reach heights between 25 and 40 metres, although in optimal conditions specimens of up to 50 metres have been recorded. The trunk is straight and the bark, grey ash or whitish, remains remarkably smooth throughout the life of the tree, which facilitates its identification. The canopy varies with the environment: in the forest it has a cylindrical form with high branches, while in isolated situations it adopts a more open irregular conical shape.
The leaves are simple, alternate and oval-shaped, with slightly scalloped margins and a nearly horizontal surface. They are arranged almost horizontally, creating dense shade in the understory. The species is monoecious: male flowers form pendulous inflorescences, while female ones are erect and produce fruits known as acorns. These fruits are tetrahedral nuts enclosed in a spiny cup that opens into four valves when mature, releasing seeds in autumn.