Lucida Beech (Fagus lucida)

Family: Fagaceae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

Fagus lucida is a deciduous Tree growing to 15 m (49ft 3in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from April to June, and the seeds ripen from October to November. The species is monoecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but both sexes can be found on the same plant) and is pollinated by Wind.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Nuts/Seeds, Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Spring, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

mild flavour, but the leaves quickly become tough so only the youngest should be used. — Young leaves - raw.; A very nice mild flavour, but the leaves quickly become tough so only the youngest should be used.; New growth is usually produced for 2 periods of 3 weeks each year, one in spring and one in mid-summer.; Edible seed - raw or cooked.

Habitat & North American Range

Mixed woods, often in pure stands with F. engleriana. Mixed mesophytic forests on mountain slopes at elevations of 800 - 2000 metres. (Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)