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Fuscospora solandri, commonly called Black Beech, is a tall attractive tree with black bark and tough leathery leaves. Wind-hardier than other beeches. Suits moderately fertile, well-drained soils at low altitude in drier eastern areas. Evergreen.

At times Beech dominate the canopy, forming its own distinctive forest type. Often found in hardwood forest plant communities that include but are not limited to Aristotelia serrata, Pittosporum eugenioides, Pseudopanax arboreus, Podocarpus totara and Fuscospora cliffortioides among others. Differs from mountain beech by the oblong leaves with obtuse apices and obvious leaf venation. Although the two are closely allied and readily form hybrids, they are distinct species.

Known as black beech because it is prone to a sooty mould that covers the trunk and branches as a result of scale insect infestation. The insect secretes honeydew, feeding the mould and attracting birds and bees.

Habitat: Lowland to montane forest. At times the canopy dominant and forming its own distinctive forest type.

Flowering: Spring [September - December]
Fruiting:    Summer [November - April]