Common Trees of Pennsylvania

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Guide to the Common Trees of Pennsylvania

Trees | Glossary | Visual Guide | Leaf Parts, Types, & Position

American Beech
(Wide & Flat: Alternate Arrangement)

Found on moist rich soils throughout the Commonwealth but more abundant in the north. An important timber species typically reaching 50'-60' high but can be higher. The beechnuts are very important food for wildlife including bears, squirrels, turkeys, and grouse. Beech is a handsome shade tree for large open areas in parks and golf courses.

Fagus grandifolia Ehrh.
enlarge

Leaves

Alternate, simple, 3"-4" long, stiff leathery texture, with a tapered tip and sharply toothed margins, light green and glossy above, yellow green below.

Twigs

Slender, dark yellow to gray, at first hairy, later smooth, zigzag. Buds very long slender sharp-pointed, covered by 10-20 reddish-brown scales.

Fruit

A stalked, prickly 4-valved bur containing triangular, pale brown, shining nuts.

Bark

Smooth, light gray mottled with dark spots.

Select a Tree from a menu below, or download the Visual Guide

Needle-Shaped or Linear
Wide & Flat: Opposite Arrangement	Wide and Flat: Alternate Arrangement
Information courtesy of: PA Department of Conservation & Natural Resources

Whitetailed Deer
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