ExploreTree

Paper Birch

Betula papyrifera

The Paper Birch is known for its smooth, white bark that peels away like paper! It grows tall and has lovely green leaves.

Habitat: Woodlands and along riverbanks

Appearance

The Paper Birch has striking, papery white bark that peels off in thin layers, revealing a salmon-pink or reddish-brown inner bark. Its ovate, serrated leaves turn bright yellow in autumn, making it easy to spot against other trees.

KingdomPlantaePhylumTracheophytaClassMagnoliopsidaOrderFagalesFamilyBetulaceaeGenusBetula

Paper Birch

Interesting facts

Ancient indigenous peoples used its strong bark to write messages and maps!

Its bark can be lit even when wet, making it a natural fire starter!

The wood is so tough it's used for making toothpicks and wooden spools!

You can tap its sap in spring to make syrup, just like maple syrup!

Special abilities

Paper Birch has waterproof bark that peels easily, helping it shed pests and protect itself from harsh weather like freezing temperatures.

Young Paper Birch bark contains chlorophyll, allowing it to perform some photosynthesis even in winter when its leaves have fallen.

Paper Birch can rapidly colonize open areas after fires or logging, quickly growing to help new forests establish.

Measurements & details

Height: 20-35 m
Canopy Spread: 7-15 m
Is Edible: Yes
Trunk Diameter: 30-60 cm
Lifespan: 50-100 years
Fruit Type: Samara
Growth Rate: Medium
Leaf Type: Deciduous

Ecological connections

eats

Moose

Alces alces

browses on twigs, bark, and leaves, especially in winter.

eats

Porcupine

Erethizon dorsatum

gnaws on the nutritious inner bark, often girdling young trees.

depends on

Yellow-bellied Sapsucker

Sphyrapicus varius

drills holes to drink sap, creating feeding sites for other animals.

depends on

Tinder Fungus

Fomes fomentarius

grows on dead or dying trees, helping with decomposition.

Traits

Deciduous

Discover the magic of plants that shed all their leaves during a particular season, often putting on a spectacular show of fall colors first. They get ready for a fresh start!

Shade Tolerant

Discover plants that love to live in the shadows, growing beautifully and happily even in spots where the sun doesn't shine all day long.

Broadleaf Tree

Discover magnificent trees that have wide, flat leaves, unlike the needles of pine trees! These are often the trees that change colors beautifully in autumn.

Fruit Bearing

These amazing plants develop fruits, which often contain seeds and are sometimes delicious treats for us or wildlife. They're nature's way of spreading new life!