American Beech
The American Beech tree, Fagus Grandifolia, has a short trunk, with a spreading crown and is a very stately tree. These beech trees have thin, smooth blue-gray bark. The American Beech grows best in full sun, but will withstand partial shade. The fagus grandifolia grows robust in well-drained, moist acid soil; but will not stand compaction. This deciduous species has leaves that are a beautiful dark green in the summer and turn to a golden brown fall color. The foliage on young American Beech remains in winter. This beech tree is a dense shade tree whose nuts attract birds and squirrels. American Beech trees have a slow to moderate growth rate. ... additional info
Lacebark Elm The Lacebark Elm tree, Ulmus parvifolia, is a superb tree for urban conditions and should be widely considered for use as a street tree. This deciduous shade tree is a very hardy, tough tree that is capable of withstanding the rigors of harsh climates, poor soils and streetscape situations. The species is known for quick growth, particularly if planted in fertile, well drained soils. The dark green, oval leaves of the lacebark elm vary from 3/4 to 2 1/2 inches in length. Most lacebark elms lose their leaves late in the fall. Fall leaf color is variable, but some yellowish to reddish purple is possible even in warmer climates. The bark of this elm is perhaps its finest feature. The grey bark begins to exfoliate or peel off in small patches as the trunk matures resulting in an interesting combination of mottled colors beneath, including green, gray, orange and brown.
