Paper Birch
Betula papyrifera · Betulaceae (Birch family)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Leaf Morphology
Leaf Type
Simple, deciduous leaf
Shape
Ovate to broadly lanceolate with an acute apex and rounded to broadly wedge-shaped base
Margin
Doubly serrate with sharp, coarse teeth
Arrangement
Alternate on the stem, featuring a slender, hairy petiole
Venation
Pinnate venation with a prominent central midrib and 5 to 9 pairs of primary veins extending to the margin
Key Features
Distinctive white exfoliating bark on mature trees, ovate leaves with doubly serrate margins, and alternate leaf arrangement
Description
Paper birch is a medium-sized deciduous tree famous for its striking white, papery bark that peels off in thin horizontal strips. It features graceful branching, bright green summer foliage that turns a brilliant golden-yellow in autumn, and produces small, cylindrical catkins.
Habitat
Found in boreal and northern hardwood forests, thriving in moist well-drained soils, often pioneering disturbed or burned areas with full sun exposure
Native Range
Native across northern and central North America, stretching from Alaska across Canada down to the northern United States