paper birch - betula papyrifera
Common Name: paper birch
Scientific Name: Family: Betulaceae Genus: Betula Species: papyrifera Hardiness Zone: 2 to 6 Height: 50 to 70 ft Width: 25 to 50 ft Description: This is the tree that people generally think of when they think of "birch." It has beautiful white, peeling bark that has been historically used for canoe building by Native Americans. The bark is also excellent kindling for fires; it can burn even if has been submerged in water for a year! Paper birch has brilliant yellow autumn foliage. Native to the north, it prefers cool and moist conditions for growing, so hot and dry urban areas are not ideal for it. While it can grow in cities, the sub-par environment weakens it and makes it more susceptible to bronze birch borer. Refrences: Bill Cook, Michigan State University, Bugwood.org (top left) Paul Wray, Iowa State University, Bugwood.org (top right) T. Davis Sydnor, The Ohio State University, Bugwood.org (bottom left) Rob Routledge, Sault College, Bugwood.org (bottom right) |