36 TREES OF NORTH CAROLINA 



in the mountains. It is easily recognized by its 

 habitat, by the reddish bark which peels off in thin 

 papery layers, and by the pale and tomentose under- 

 surface of the leaves. Dates of flowering: about 

 April 5, 1903; April 2, 1908; April 17, 1915; April 

 15, 1916. Examples: trees by Scott's Hole. 



38. Betula lenta L. Cherry Birch, Black Birch. 



A fine tall tree confined in this state to cool rich 

 soil in the mountains. It may be easily distinguished 

 from the River Birch by its place of growth, the 

 smooth cherry-like bark, and by the strong odor of 

 wintergreen. The leaves are bright green above, 

 usually heart shaped at base and slightly downy on 

 the veins beneath. The wood is strong, hard, dark 

 in color and takes a fine polish. 



39. Betula lutea F. A. Michx. Yellow Birch.* 



This birch is confined to the high mountains. It 

 may be distinguished from the Cherry Birch by the 

 silvery or yellowish bark, which scales off in large and 

 very thin papery sheets. The leaves are dull green 

 above and downy on the veins beneath, the base not 

 heart-shaped or slightly so. The wood, like that of 

 the Cherry Birch is highly valued for the manufac- 

 ture of furniture. 



* There is a tree somewhat intermediate between the Cherry Birch 

 and the Yellow Birch, that is considered distinct by Dr. Britton, 

 and given the name of Betula alleghonensis by him. The leaves 

 are mostly cordate like those of the Cherry Birch, but the scales 

 of the fruit are hairy while those of the latter are smooth. It 

 resembles the Yellow Birch in the hairy scales, but differs in the 

 cordate leaves. The bark is said to be either close and furrowed 

 or to peel off in thin yellowish layers. If really distinct, it is 

 difficult to determine with certainty by the beginner. 



