Birch grows all around the Polar Regions. A beautiful white-barked tree with slender branches, it has a high conservation value.

Birch bark is full of natural waxes that make it waterproof and naturally durable. These properties have been used by the Lapps to make roofing shingles and by the North American Indians for their birch bark canoes. The oil extracted from the bark contains a chemical used to treat rheumatism and inflammations.

General Description

Birch timber has an even pale yellow brown or fawn colour with a straight grain and fine uniform texture. The wavy or 'masur' markings on some boards give a very spectacular flamy birch sheen that is sought after by cabinetmakers. Birch produces a versatile, fine textured timber of relatively uniform appearance that makes it suitable for many applications including furniture, flooring and industrial turnery.

The wood of yellow birch is heavy, hard and strong. It has very good bending properties, with good crushing strength and shock resistance.