Japanese beech

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Fagus crenata

Japanese beech, a reference photo
Photo: Alpsdake · Public domain

Fagus crenata, buna (Japanese: ブナ), known as Siebold's beech, or Japanese beech, is a species of deciduous tree in the family Fagaceae. It is a tall dense hardwood that is only native to Japan. The first written record of this tree in the Western world was in 1830 and it was scientifically described in 1851. It is a high canopy tree and is the dominant tree in most of its range; often colocated with Quercus crispula (Japanese oak) and Acer mono (Painted maple). Nuts, seeds, oil, and young leaves can be eaten but care must be exercised due to toxins. It is also used for firewood, furniture, construction, and shade. Climate change is having a negative impact on this tree.

From Wikipedia, under CC BY-SA 4.0.

Is it poisonous?

We have no record of Japanese beech being toxic, poisonous or venomous. That is not proof that it is safe. Never eat, touch or handle a wild plant, mushroom or animal on the strength of an identification; ask someone qualified.

Easily confused with

Classification

Kingdom
Plantae
Phylum
Tracheophyta
Class
Magnoliopsida
Order
Fagales
Family
Fagaceae
Genus
Fagus
Species
Fagus crenata

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