T.E.R:R.A.I.N - Taranaki Educational Resource: Research, Analysis and Information Network


Beech (Red)(Nothofagus fusca)

Kingdom: Plantae
Division: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Fagales
Family: Nothofagaceae
Genus: Nothofagus
Species: N. fusca
Binomial name Nothofagus fusca
Common name: Red Beech

Planted in the Te Henui valley

Nothofagus fusca (New Zealand Red Beech) is a species of Nothofagus, endemic to New Zealand, where it occurs on both the North Island and South Island. Generally it is found on lower hills and inland valley floors where soil is fertile and well drained. It is a medium-sized evergreen tree growing to 35 m tall. The leaves are alternately arranged, broad ovoid, 2 to 4 cm long and 1.5 to 3 cm broad, the margin distinctively double-toothed with each lobe bearing two teeth. The fruit is a small cupule containing three seeds.



Underside of leaves