This tree can be found in large parts of North America, particularly the central and eastern portions. When you can identify this plant, leave a comment with its common and scientific names — along with any personal story you might have about the tree.
Leaves
Leaf arrangement along stem
Tree with fall colors
Nut and casing
Limbs and leaves in winter
Leaf arrangement and leaf buds during winter
Trunk and bark
Trunk and bark of mature tree
ANSWER (subsequently added to this post to facilitate the “search” function for these images): American beech (Fagus grandifolia)
I think it’s American Beech Fagus grandifolia
American beech, Fagus grandifolia. Nice burning firewood, but very difficult to split!
Definitely American Beech, Fagus grandifolia. Pretty common in Southern Appalachians. I love the smooth gray bark!
Well done J, Richard and Tony. This is American beech (Fagus grandifolia). I don’t think I’ve had the opportunity to attempt splitting any logs of American beech, Richard. But if it’s anything like Sourwood (Oxydendrum arboreum), I understand what you are describing. Even though American beech leaves are brown all winter, I still appreciate the fact that the tree keeps its leaves during that season and adds “winter interest” to the woods. Tony, I agree with you about the smooth gray bark. I love it, too!
Always reminded me of an elephants leg, the tree trunk