Edible Plants of the World

American beech, Beech mast

It is a temperate plant. It grows on moist, well drained slopes. Trees are slow growing. They can tolerate shade. It suits hardiness zones 4-8. Arboretum Tasmania.

Synonyms

Edible Portion

Where does American beech grow?

Found in: Australia, Canada, North America, Tasmania, United States

Notes: There are 10 Fagus species. The nuts are sweet and nutritious.

Status: An attractive nut.

Growing American beech, Beech mast

Cultivation: Plants can be grown from seed. Seeds germinate early. They can also produce sprouts from the roots and these suckers can be used.

Edible Uses: The nut is eaten raw and also roasted. They can be ground and made into flour. The seed coat is removed. It yields an attractive oil. This can be used for cooking. The expanding leaves can be cooked as a potherb. The germinating seeds can be eaten raw or cooked. Roasted seeds are a coffee substitute.

Production: Trees are slow growing. Trees produce good seed crops at about 50 years of age. They produce good crops each 2-8 years. Trees can live for 200 years.

Nutrition Info

per 100g edible portion

Edible Part Energy (kcal) Protein (g) Iron (mg) Vitamin A (ug) Vitamin c (mg) Zinc (mg) % Water
Nuts 577 6.2 2.5 0 15.5 0.4 6.6

References

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