NuttyArb- Veteran Beech

Veteran Beech

Beech and oak are the two main climatic species of Britain.

Beech live for a maximum of about 350yrs, whereas oaks can live for over a thousand years. Trees that have lived for a long time and are near the end of their lives are known as veterans. Any tree that lives much longer than the average for its species is known as ancient.

The beech in this gallery are probably around 350yrs old, hence veteran trees.

There is a distinct difference between an oak -Quercus robur- woodland and a beech- Fagus sylvatica- woodland. The oak woods are open, airy places. You will find many different species of flora, fauna and fungi present, offering rich ecology.

A beech woodland, in some respects, is similar to coniferous plantations. There will be little undergrowth and an almost empty forest floor. This is due to the different colonisation strategies of the two species.

Oak trees prefer a lot of light, so do not grow too close together, thus integrating with the existing woodland and allowing other species to flourish. Beech are a faster growing species and grow closer together. Due to the philotaxi (arrangement of leaves) little light reaches the ground. This prevents other species from establishing and even young beech trees.

Beech woodlands can be beautiful places. You often find tall, elegant stems with the silvery, almost fluid looking bark. In spring the leaves are a vivid green, whereas in autumn the trees provide brilliant coppery autumn colour.

Veteran Beech

Veteran Beech Gallery