Beech trees are majestic shade trees that need lots of space to show off in the landscape. With their smooth gray bark and colorful autumn foliage, beeches are beautiful throughout the year. The two most commonly grown are European Beech (Fagus sylvatica) and American Beech (Fagus grandifolia). While they do not do so well under urban conditions, American beeches make excellent ornamentals in suburban parks and spacious residential yards.