High, clearly indicated by the characteristic peeling papery bark and light-colored sapwood typical of the Betula genus confidenceIdentify wood
Paper Birch (or Yellow Birch)
Betula papyrifera (or Betula alleghaniensis) · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Northern North America, across Canada and the northern United States
- Hardness
- 910 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Non-durable, perishable regarding decay and insect resistance
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a fine, even texture
Color & Appearance
Light reddish-brown heartwood with wide, nearly white sapwood
Hardness (Janka)
910 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable, perishable regarding decay and insect resistance
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- Moderate, typically $3.00 to $6.00 per board foot for lumber
- Wood Age Estimate
- Freshly cut to recently seasoned (less than 1 year old)
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern, abundant and widely distributed, generally considered highly sustainable
Common Uses
Pulpwood, cabinetry, interior furniture, plywood, turnings, and firewood
Geographic Origin
Northern North America, across Canada and the northern United States
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though it can burn easily during routing or sawing if feeds are too slow
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and finishes very well, though prone to blotchiness, so a pre-stain wood conditioner is recommended
Notable Features
Distinctive peeling papery bark, high BTU value making it a popular firewood choice
Identified August 1, 2026
