Tree
American Beech
Fagus grandifolia
Traits
Varieties We Carry
StandardFagus grandifolia
Sizes & Pricing
3 galFrom$29.95
Fresh this week. Last restocked Mar 9.
LightFull Sun to Part Shade
WaterModerate
Mature size50-70 feet × 40-50 feet
About American Beech
American Beech (Fagus grandifolia) is a stately deciduous native tree of eastern North America, recognized by its smooth, silver-gray bark and glossy dark green leaves that turn golden bronze in autumn. Note for Northeast Florida customers: this species is rated hardy only through USDA zone 8 and is not recommended for zone 9b — it will decline in the region's heat and mild winters. Starting at $29.95.
Plant details
- Bloom Season
- Spring
- Flower Color
- Non-flowering
- Growth Rate
- Slow
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Soil
- Loam, Acidic, Well-drained
Best planting months
Recommended forZone 9b · St. Augustine, FL
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This monthGood windowOther months
Seasonal care
Bloom season. New foliage emerges. Good planting window.
Active growing season.
Foliage may begin to change or drop. Ideal planting window.
Dormant — drops foliage. Can be planted in mild winter periods.
Care essentials
Light
American Beech grows in full sun to partial shade in its native range; however, this tree is not recommended for planting in Northeast Florida (zone 9b), as UF/IFAS rates its hardiness only through zone 8 — the heat and mild winters of zone 9b cause chronic stress and poor performance.
Water
Requires moderate, consistent moisture in well-drained, acidic soil; American Beech does not tolerate drought or compacted clay. Note: this species is outside its recommended zone for Northeast Florida and will struggle long-term.
Soil & Fertilizer
Prefers deep, moist, well-drained, acidic loam. This species is not suited to the sandy, warm soils of Northeast Florida and is not recommended for zone 9b landscapes; consider native alternatives such as Southern Live Oak (Quercus virginiana) for similar landscape impact.
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Common questions
Is American Beech a good plant for St. Augustine?
American Beech is a tree for Zone 9b coastal Florida gardens, reaching 50-70 feet × 40-50 feet.
Care information verified from
Last reviewed February 2026. Our care guidance comes from trusted horticulture sources and decades of helping St. Augustine gardeners. Conditions here can vary dramatically from one area to the next, so come ask us and we'll tailor it to your yard.