How Do People Use the Paper Birch Tree?
The Paper Birch is a versatile tree both in habitat and in benefits. Used in everything from paper making and furniture building to natural remedies and native uses, every element of this tree from the unique bark and wood to the sap that flows within is of worth to humans and wildlife alike. Does this Spark an idea?
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Where do Paper Birch Trees Grow?
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The Paper Birch tree (Betula papyrifera) is native to the Boreal region of Canada. Despite its primary habitat being located toward Canada's northern limits of tree growth, this variety of tree is able to thrive in many types of soils and more temperate climates. Named for the manner in which the bark peels off in paper-thin sheets, this unique tree has been used by both natives, settlers and commercial endeavors alike for many centuries.
Native American Uses
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According to the province of British Columbia, natives "used birch bark as material for baskets, cradles and canoes". Additionally, the bark could be used for wrapping food and as roofing for shelters. The wood itself was used for many smaller implements, and the sap was used as a remedy for colds. British Columbia's website goes on to state, "Birch sap can be used to make syrup, but it requires 80 to 100 liters of sap to make one liter of syrup! Undiluted, birch sap can be used to make vinegar or birch beer." Clearly, the Paper Birch offered immense benefits to the natives that creatively used it.
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Modern and Commercial Uses
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In modern times, the Paper Birch is relegated primarily to commercial use. Birch is a hardwood, and according to Earl Rook of Rook.org is used, "commercially for veneer, plywood and pulpwood. It is easily worked and takes finishes and stains readily. Furniture, cabinets and numerous specialty items are made from birch lumber." Birch is also a common stove and fireplace fuel, and the original aesthetic of its bark has also resulted in widespread landscaping use--particularly in northern locales.
Wildlife Uses
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Even without human ingenuity and use, the Paper Birch is still widely used by a multitude of wild animals, from mammals to birds and insects. According to the province of British Columbia, "Paper birch can be an important winter food for many forest animals including deer and moose. It is also a favorite food of snowshoe hare, porcupine and beaver". Of course, many different species of birds use its nooks and crannies as nesting places as well.
How Will You Use the Paper Birch?
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As with most trees, the Paper Birch is useful for much more than just its wood. If birches grow in your yard or nearby, try making baskets from their bark as a fun way to get outdoors with your children, or if you are particularly adventurous perhaps you'll try using birch sap for beverages or syrup. Remember, though, that the medicinal uses of birch have not been verified or evaluated and the advice and guidance of an expert is necessary to safely explore any of these native uses. But even if you decide to just admire their unique beauty, take solace in the fact that if you don't take advantage of the Paper Birch's many benefits, the animals, birds and insects in your neighborhood are sure to.
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