Paper Birch (White Birch)
Betula papyrifera • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight and uniform with a fine, even texture. Shows occasional small knots and distinct pith flecks (dark brown streaks) which are common in the species.
Color Description
Heartwood is light brown to reddish-brown; sapwood is nearly white and merges gradually into heartwood. The wood has a low natural luster and tends to become more yellow or golden-brown with age and UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
910 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Non-durable; perishable and highly susceptible to decay, rot, and insect attack when exposed to moisture.
Common Uses
Plywood, crates, boxes, basic furniture parts, turned items (spools, bowls, toys), toothpicks, and popsicle sticks.
Geographic Origin
Northern North America, specifically Canada and the northern United States.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$4.50 - $6.00 per board foot
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly cut (less than 1 year). The wood is very pale with no significant oxidation or darkening, and the bark on the edges appears relatively fresh and intact.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern (IUCN); widely available and not CITES protected. Frequently managed via FSC certification.
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools. It turns, glues, and finishes well. It can be somewhat abrasive on cutters due to high density in localized areas.
Notable Features
Characteristic white, papery bark seen on the specimen edges; contains betulin which is flammable even when wet; produces a faint, pleasant scent when worked.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and finishes well, though it can blotch like cherry or maple. A sanding sealer or gel stain is recommended for even coloring. Topcoats like water-based polyurethane preserve the pale color.
Identification Confidence
High. The combination of the distinct white/peeling bark on the edges, the pale cream color of the face grain, and the presence of small pith flecks are classic indicators of Betula papyrifera.