Paper Birch (White Birch)
Betula papyrifera • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight and uniform with a fine, even texture. The sample shows a rough-split surface with some interlocking fibers typical of the species, but lacks significant figure like bird's eye or curls.
Color Description
Heartwood is a light reddish-brown, while the sapwood is nearly white or a light creamy yellow. This sample appears very pale, suggesting mostly sapwood with some dark mineral staining or early decay spots.
Hardness Rating
910 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Non-durable; highly susceptible to rot and insect attack if exposed to moisture/ground contact.
Common Uses
Plywood, crates, pallets, turned objects, toys, tongue depressors, and paper pulp. Historically used for birch bark canoes.
Geographic Origin
Northern North America, ranging from Alaska through Canada to the Northern United States.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$4.00 - $6.00 per board foot for premium lumber; significantly less for firewood-grade logs.
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly harvested or recently split; the lack of graying and the presence of rough, light-colored fibers suggest limited UV exposure or oxidation (under 1 year).
Sustainability Status
Least Concern (IUCN); widely available and not CITES protected. Heavily utilized in commercial forestry.
Workability
Easy to work with both hand and machine tools. It glues and finishes well but can be prone to tear-out during planing if there is wavy grain. It is a favored wood for turning.
Notable Features
The distinctive papery, white bark visible on the edges is a primary identifier. It has no characteristic odor or taste. The wood is relatively lightweight for a hardwood.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and finishes well. Polyurethane or lacquer are common to preserve the light color, though linseed or tung oil can be used to bring out a warmer amber tone.
Identification Confidence
High; the combination of the thin, white/brown peeling bark, the pale uniform texture of the exposed wood, and the characteristic mineral streaking is diagnostic for Paper Birch.