Paper Birch (or similar Birch species)
Betula papyrifera · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Northern North America, across Canada and the northern United States
- Hardness
- 910 lbf (Soft)
- Durability
- Non-durable
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Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a fine, uniform texture
Color & Appearance
Heartwood is typically light reddish-brown, and the sapwood is nearly white. The bark shown is chalky white to grayish with characteristic dark lenticels and patches of lichen.
Hardness (Janka)
910 lbf (Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3.00 to 6.00 USD per board foot for lumber
- Wood Age Estimate
- Freshly cut log (less than a few months old based on bark condition and moisture)
- Sustainability Status
- Least concern, widely abundant and not listed on CITES or IUCN red lists
Common Uses
Plywood, turned objects, boxes, interior furniture, and specialty items
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 when routing or shaping due to friction
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and finishes very well, though pigment stain can sometimes blotch; water-based or oil-based polyurethanes work well
Notable Features
Bark features prominent horizontal lenticels and contains betulin, making it highly flammable even when wet
