WoodSwatch

American Beech

Fagus grandifolia

American Beech is a hard, strong native hardwood prized for its fine texture and excellent shock resistance. Widely used in furniture making and interior applications, it produces a clean, smooth finish that accepts stains well. Its combination of strength and workability makes it popular for both structural and decorative purposes.

Botanical Profile

Fagus grandifolia is a deciduous tree native to eastern North America, typically reaching heights of 20-35 meters with a broad, rounded crown. The tree features smooth gray bark and produces small triangular nuts enclosed in spiny husks. It often forms pure stands in well-drained, rich soils.

Physical Properties

The wood displays pale cream to light pinkish-brown coloration with little distinction between heartwood and sapwood. With a density of approximately 720 kg per cubic meter and Janka hardness of 1,300 lbf, it ranks among the harder domestic hardwoods. The fine, even texture and straight grain contribute to its workability.

Workshop Notes

Blunting Effect

Moderate - high density requires frequent sharpening of cutting edges

Gluing Advice

Good gluing properties with standard wood adhesives

Finishing

Excellent - accepts stains and finishes beautifully, takes a lustrous polish

Steam Bending

Excellent steam bending characteristics, one of the best for curved work

Historical Context

American Beech has been utilized since colonial times for furniture, tool handles, and food containers due to its lack of taste or odor. During the 19th century, it became a preferred wood for plane bodies and workbench tops. Indigenous peoples used the nuts as a food source and the bark for medicinal purposes.