European beech

Fagus sylvatica L.

Family: FagaceaeZones: 4a-7b per NC State Plant Toolbox

Pet & Human Safety

People: Toxic to people (low severity)Pets: Toxic to pets

Hazardous parts

fruits (beechnuts): raw or unripe, in large quantities (NC State Plant Toolbox, poison part: fruits)

Preparation

n/a

Hazard type

gastrointestinal upset

Hazard route

ingestion

How complete this information is

The safety information on this page is partial. Where a source covers a point, it is shown; where none does, the page says so.

Toxic to pets

Dogs: RHS lists the plant as 'harmful if eaten' for dogs (RHS plant profile, referencing the HTA guide), and NC State flags it as a problem for dogs: raw or unripe beechnuts in quantity can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain and nausea in humans and dogs. Cats, horses: no statement in the sources.

PlotAndPetal cannot tell you whether a plant you found can be eaten. Only someone who can see the plant can identify it.

Poison control

If someone has collapsed, cannot be woken, is having a seizure or has trouble breathing, call 911 now. For any other possible poisoning, call Poison Help: 1-800-222-1222.

Emergency number source: U.S. federal law (47 U.S.C. § 251(e)(3)), read 2026-10-07.

Naturalist Lore

Historical Background & Breeding Lore

The history of this plant and its name, and how it was bred, where we have them.

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Care

Hardiness zones: USDA 4a-7b per NC State Plant Toolbox
Light: Full sun to part shade per NC State and RHS.
Water needs: moderate
Mature size: US: 50-60 ft tall, 35-50 ft wide per NC State; UK: RHS: up to about 25 m (80 ft) tall and 15 m (50 ft) spread (growing guide); profile size class higher than 12 m and wider than 8 m, to 30 m, 20-50 years to maturity
Where it comes from: Europe to the Caucasus; native to Britain and Ireland (RHS); NC State lists native countries including France, Spain, Great Britain and introduced in the United States.

Soil & Drainage

Pruning & Flush Rhythm

Feeding Schedule

How to prepare the soil, when and what to feed, and how and when to prune where that applies.

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