Birch Tree Saplings

Family: Betulaceae (Birch or Alder Family)

Genus: Betula

Description: One of the key features of birch trees is the structure of their leaves, which are oval, finely-toothed, alternate, and simple; The young stems are woody and tough. Birch seedlings can be quite numerous in newly-constructed cranberry beds as these trees produce an incredible number of seeds that are scattered and carried by the wind. They also grow rapidly on bare soil. The birch family is composed of six genera and upwards of 170 species; most occur in cool and temperate areas of the northern hemisphere; Often associated with streams, lakes, or other areas where drainage is poor.