Paper Birch

Betula papyrifera

Betula papyrifera, commonly known as paper birch or white birch, is a species of birch native to North America. It belongs to the Betulaceae family, which includes other birch species.

Paper birch is a deciduous tree that typically grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, woodlands, and along riverbanks. It is known for its distinctive white bark, which peels in papery layers, revealing a reddish-brown inner bark. This bark coloration and texture make it one of the most recognizable and attractive trees in temperate regions.

The leaves of paper birch are simple, alternate, and doubly serrated, with a triangular shape and pointed tip. They are bright green in color and turn yellow in the fall, providing a striking display of autumn color.

Paper birch is valued for its ornamental beauty and is often planted in parks, gardens, and landscapes for its attractive bark and foliage. It also has cultural significance for Indigenous peoples, who historically used the bark for various purposes, including making canoes, shelters, and baskets.

In addition to its ornamental and cultural value, paper birch provides habitat and food for wildlife species such as birds, mammals, and insects. It's also sometimes used in forestry for timber, though it's less commercially important than some other birch species.