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July 26, 2026Sources cited
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Paper Birch

Paper birch (*Betula papyrifera*) is a short-lived deciduous tree native to northern North America.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Paper birch (Betula papyrifera) is a short-lived deciduous tree native to northern North America, known for its distinctive white, peeling bark. It is widespread across Canada and serves as an important forest species, particularly in boreal and northern regions. The tree is used for lumber, veneer, plywood, pulpwood, and ornamental planting, and is the provincial tree of Saskatchewan.

Description

Paper birch is a medium-sized deciduous tree with white exfoliating bark, teardrop-shaped toothed leaves, and yellow fall colour. Young trees may be pyramidal, becoming more rounded or irregular with age.

Distribution and habitat

The species is native to northern North America and occurs widely across Canada and the northern United States. It is typically found in cool, moist sites and can colonize disturbed ground after fire or logging.

Uses

Paper birch wood is used in lumber, veneer, plywood, pulpwood, and many specialty products. Its bark has also been used for traditional birch-bark canoes.

Ecology

Paper birch is an important wildlife plant, providing browse, seeds, buds, bark, and habitat for several animals. It is a short-lived, fast-growing species that often plays an early role in forest regeneration.

Key facts

  • Paper birch is native to northern North America and is especially associated with cooler climates.
  • Its bark is smooth, white, and peels in papery sheets, which is the source of the common name.
  • The species is commonly used for veneer, plywood, pulpwood, lumber, and specialty wood products.
  • It is valued in landscaping for its bark and autumn colour.
  • Paper birch is the provincial tree of Saskatchewan and widely distributed across Canada.
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Canadian context

Paper birch is widespread across Canada and is an important native forest species, especially in boreal and northern regions. It is also the provincial tree of Saskatchewan.[2][13]

Frequently asked questions

What is paper birch called scientifically?
Its scientific name is *Betula papyrifera*.
Why is it called paper birch?
The name comes from its thin white bark, which peels away in papery layers.
Where does paper birch grow naturally?
It is native to northern North America, including much of Canada and the northern United States.
How tall does paper birch grow?
Sources commonly describe it as about 50 to 70 feet tall, though some references note larger or smaller ranges depending on site and region.
What is paper birch used for?
It is used for veneer, plywood, pulpwood, lumber, and specialty items such as furniture and household products.
Is paper birch important to wildlife?
Yes. It provides food and browse for animals such as moose, deer, beaver, and snowshoe hare.

References

  1. Ontario Tree Festival — https://www.ontwf.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/PaperBirch.pdf
    Supports: Scientific name and basic identification facts
  2. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Betula_papyrifera
    Supports: Common names, native range, uses, provincial/state tree status
  3. University of Minnesota — https://trees.umn.edu/paper-birch-betula-papyrifera
    Supports: Common name, family, size, hardiness, native range
  4. Naturally:wood — https://www.naturallywood.com/species/paper-white-birch/
    Supports: Wood uses, bark description, habitat, wildlife value
  5. USDA Forest Service — https://www.srs.fs.usda.gov/pubs/misc/ag_654/volume_2/betula/papyrifera.htm
    Supports: Lifespan, uses, habitat, ornamental value
  6. NC State University — https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/betula-papyrifera/
    Supports: Genus, species, growth form and cultivation traits
  7. Native Plant Trust — https://gobotany.nativeplanttrust.org/species/betula/papyrifera/
    Supports: Birch bark canoe use, wildlife value, ornamental value
  8. Government of British Columbia — https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/industry/forestry/managing-our-forest-resources/silviculture/tree-species-selection/tree-species-compendium-index/paper-birch
    Supports: Tree form, wood uses, wildlife browse value