Birches are ususally found in northern climates. It can grow to heights of up to 30 metres.
The most stiking feature of the birch is of course its bark. Rich in essential oils it makes up for good tinder but apart from that the bark was used by humans in many different ways since day one of humankind. Many different cultures showed just how versatile the bark as a crafting material is.
Birch-tar , gained trough dry destillation of the bark, was used as glue craft humandkinds first arrows for example. It could also be seen as the world oldest chewing gum since 5000 year old remains of the tar marked by human teeth were found in Finland and Denmark. Naturally the bark also served as paper in different ancient civilizations all around the globe.
But there are even more examples. In Finland the bark was a used to make shoes and bags and in Russia the so called Tujes is a traditional, often beautifully ornated, container made out of birch bark used to store food. Native americans even made canoes and shelters out of birch bark and also used the disinfectant properties of the bark to treat small wounds.
There is also the Birch sap which to this day is still used as a refreshing and healthy drink.
The wood of the birch however isn’t fit for construction work but is rather used for small or decorative woodworking. Its a light and fine type of wood that is easy to whittle.