Japanese Beech

Fagus crenata

Physical Characteristics

Fagus crenata is a deciduous Tree growing to 35 m (114ft 10in) at a slow rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 4 and is not frost tender. The species is monoecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but both sexes can be found on the same plant) and is pollinated by Wind. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in full shade (deep woodland) semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.

Distribution

E. Asia - Japan.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Canopy;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Oil Seed Edible Uses: Coffee Oil Young leaves - raw[105]. A very nice mild flavour but the leaves quickly become tough so only the youngest should be used. New growth is usually produced for 2 periods of 3 weeks each year, one in spring and one in mid-summer. Edible seed - raw or cooked[105, 177]. Rich in oil. The seed should not be eaten in large quantities, see the notes above on toxicity. It can be dried and ground into a powder. An edible semi-drying oil is obtained from the seed[105, 177]. The roasted seed is a coffee substitute.

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

Although no specific mention has been seen for this species, large quantities of the seed of many species in this genus are thought to be toxic.