Fagus sylvatica

Fagus sylvatica, the European beech or common beech, is a large, graceful deciduous tree in the beech family with smooth silvery-gray bark, large leaf area, and a short trunk with low branches. It is native to much of Europe, growing in humid climates. The species is cultivated as an ornamental. Although slightly toxic due to the tannins and alkaloids they contain, the nuts are consumed by animals and humans. The trees are also used for timber.