Beech (Fagus sylvatica)

Family: Fagaceae | Edibility: Choice Edible (4/5)

Main Bloom Time: Early spring, Late spring, Mid spring. Form: Oval.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Nuts/Seeds, Leaves

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

Flavor & Culinary Uses

mild flavour, they go well in a mixed salad. — Young leaves - raw.; A very nice mild flavour, they go well in a mixed salad.; However, 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.

Habitat & North American Range

Grows in woodlands where it is often the dominant species, especially on chalky and soft limestone soils, though sometimes also on well-drained loams and sands. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7)