Yellow Birch
Betula alleghaniensis
Betulaceae
Photo by Placeholder via System Generated • CC0 (2025-05-28)
Description
Yellow Birch is a large native tree common in Buffalo's mature forests. Its bronze or yellowish bark peels in thin curls, and crushed twigs smell like wintergreen. It's an important timber tree and wildlife food source in northern hardwood forests.
Characteristics
Leaf Type
simple
Leaf Shape
oval to oblong with double-toothed edges
Height
60-80 feet
Bark
yellowish-bronze bark peeling in thin papery curls
Fruit
upright catkins with winged seeds
Identification Tips
- • Bronze to yellow peeling bark
- • Wintergreen scent from crushed twigs
- • Often grows on nurse logs
- • Horizontal lenticels on bark
- • Leaves more elongated than Paper Birch
Seasonal Changes
Spring
Catkins expand with new leaves
Summer
Creates moderate shade in forest understory
Fall
Clear yellow fall color
Winter
Bronze bark and wintergreen scent when scratched
Habitat & Growing Conditions
Hardiness Zones
3, 4, 5, 6, 7
Soil Preference
rich, moist, cool soils
Sun Requirements
partial shade
Image Gallery
Leaves
Photo by Placeholder via System Generated • CC0
Winter
Photo by Placeholder via System Generated • CC0