European beech forest in Belgium

© Philippe Moes/Minden Picture

Ageing gracefully. European beech forest, Belgium

Beech trees are pretty amazing. There are several species worldwide, but the European beech steals the spotlight in much of Europe. With its smooth grey bark, short trunk and sweeping branches, this tree is a standout in Belgium's forests, as shown in today's image. It grows in temperate regions and prefers well-drained, fertile soils, taking up to 30 years to mature. Not only do these 50-metre tall trees dominate the landscape, but their wood is also used to make some of the sturdiest furniture, flooring and even kitchen tools. Wildlife such as black bears, foxes, squirrels, chipmunks and mice love them too—beech nuts, though slightly bitter, provide a feast for all kinds of critters. In winter, the beech forests in Belgium become even more enchanting.

In Canada, the American beech is a fascinating part of the country's natural heritage. These deciduous trees are native to eastern Canada, thriving in regions like Ontario, Quebec and parts of the Maritimes. Historically, these trees were highly valued by Indigenous communities. The tree's durable wood was used for tools and floor planks, while the nuts were sometimes collected as a food source. They are also slow-growing but resilient and can live over 300 years.