Fagus grandifolia
American Beech
Unlike most other trees, the bark of the American Beech does not change much over time. The bark remains smooth and gray throughout the long life of the Beech leading some to compare it to elephant’s skin. Beech trees reproduce sexually as well as through suckering, a process whereby new trees sprout from the roots of existing trees. In the winter, Beech can often be identified as the only deciduous trees with brown leaves still rustling in the wind. Why exactly Beech retain their leaves is unknown, but it is theorized that it might be a means to protect their buds from predation.