**Description:** A dominant forest hardwood with exceptionally smooth, silver-gray bark and oval, toothed leaves.
**Size:** Reaches heights of 60–80 feet with a broad canopy.
**Sexual Dimorphism:** Monoecious; individual trees possess both male and female flowers.
**Conservation:** Threatened across the plateau by Beech Bark Disease.
**Habitat:** Rich, well-drained upland soils; a primary component of northern hardwood forests.
**Behavior:** Retains its dead leaves through winter (marcescence); produces high-fat nuts vital for bears.