Yellow Birch Betula alleghaniensis

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Habitat: Commonly found at the higher elevations in the Appalachians (3,000-4,000 feet). Prefers moist woods and poorly-drained soils; ubiquitous in swamp forests and bogs. It is often seen growing near sweet birch, hemlock, and rhododendron.

Characteristics: A moderately tall tree that approaches 80 feet in height; the trunk having a diameter of 2-4 feet. The bark is yellow-bronze in color and peels away in small curls. Broken twigs give off a fragrant wintergreen odor.

Copyright Stephen Ostermiller 1996-2011