ExplorePlants

sweet birch

Betula lenta

The sweet birch is a tall tree with smooth, dark bark and shiny leaves. It grows in forests and is known for its sweet sap, which can be made into syrup!

Habitat: Forests

Appearance

The sweet birch has shiny, dark reddish-brown bark that often peels in thick, non-papery plates, distinct from other birches. Its slender twigs are aromatic, and its oval, finely-toothed leaves turn bright yellow in autumn.

KingdomPlantaePhylumTracheophytaClassMagnoliopsidaOrderFagalesFamilyBetulaceaeGenusBetula
sweet birch
aromatic trait badgedeciduous trait badgebroadleaf_tree trait badgefragrant_flower trait badge
sweet birch

Category

Plants

Rarity

Common

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Snaps

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Interesting facts

Before synthetic versions, sweet birch sap was a main source of wintergreen oil.

Indigenous peoples once brewed its bark into a root beer-like beverage.

Its bark smells exactly like a wintergreen mint when you scratch it!

The scientific name 'lenta' means 'pliable', describing its flexible yet strong wood!

Special abilities

Ability

Wintergreen Wonder

Sweet birch twigs and bark produce a wintergreen scent that helps it deter hungry insects and animals.

Ability

Flexible Foundation

Its strong, pliable wood helps the tree withstand harsh winds and heavy snow without breaking.

Ability

Forest Pioneer

This tree can grow well in poor or rocky soils, allowing it to colonize new forest areas.

Measurements & details

Height
1200-3000 cm
Spread
400-1500 cm
Flower Size
1-8 cm
Bloom Season
Early spring
Edible
Yes
Toxicity
None
Lifecycle
Perennial
Pollination Method
Wind

Ecological connections

Traits

Also known as

Cherry Birch

Collections

Safety

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Always stay on paths when exploring near trees to avoid tripping.

Frequently Asked Questions

How tall is sweet birch?

1200-3000 cm

How wide does sweet birch spread?

400-1500 cm

How big are the flowers on sweet birch?

1-8 cm

When does sweet birch bloom?

Early spring

Is sweet birch edible?

Yes

Is sweet birch toxic?

None

What is sweet birch's lifecycle?

Perennial

How is sweet birch pollinated?

Wind

Snap Map

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Where to spot

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