Paper Birch
Betula papyrifera · Betulaceae (Birch family)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Leaf Morphology
Leaf Type
Simple, deciduous
Shape
Ovate to deltoid with an acuminate tip and rounded or cuneate base
Margin
Doubly serrate (coarsely toothed with smaller teeth along the edges)
Arrangement
Alternate along the twig
Venation
Pinnate with a prominent pale midrib and 5 to 9 pairs of prominent secondary veins extending to the margin
Key Features
Distinctive papery white peeling bark on mature trunks, doubly serrate ovate leaves with pointed tips, and alternate leaf arrangement on slender twigs
Description
Paper birch is a medium-sized deciduous tree renowned for its striking chalky-white, peeling bark that separates into thin, paper-like layers. It features an open, graceful crown, catkins in early spring, and small winged nutlets. The leaves provide a lush green canopy in summer before turning a brilliant golden-yellow in autumn.
Habitat
Found in boreal and northern hardwood forests, often thriving in moist woods, slopes, stream banks, and recently disturbed soils or burned areas in full sun to partial shade
Native Range
Native across northern and central North America, stretching from Alaska across Canada to Newfoundland, and extending south into the northern United States