American Beechnut

Fagus grandifolia

Illustration: American beechnut (Fagus grandifolia) in spiny husks

Identification: Smooth grey bark (the 'initial tree'); small triangular nuts in spiny burs that split into four parts. Leaves oval with pointed teeth.

Dangerous look-alikes: No dangerous look-alike; horse chestnut (Aesculus) nuts are TOXIC — but horse chestnut has palmate compound leaves and big spiny husks, very different tree.

Edible parts: Small triangular nuts.

Season and habitat: Fall. Beech-maple forests.

Preparation: Tiny and fiddly — best eaten fresh out of the bur, or roasted. High in fat; eat in moderation (large quantities can upset stomachs). Wildlife competes hard for them.