904 Bog Birch

Bog Birch: (Betula pumila), also known as swamp birch or dwarf birch, is a versatile deciduous shrub that thrives in northern North America's wet and calcium-rich environments, such as bogs, fens, and swamps. Growing between 4 and 12 feet tall, it features a bushy, multi-branched form with small, rounded leaves that transform into vibrant shades of yellow, orange, or red in the fall. Its mature bark exhibits a grey or reddish-brown hue with pale lenticels, distinguishing it from other birch species. This monoecious plant blooms in spring, producing catkins that develop into small, wind- and water-dispersed nutlets. The bog birch is ecologically significant, supporting over 400 species of moths and butterflies, while also serving as a food source for songbirds and deer. Additionally, its ability to tolerate wet conditions makes it a valuable asset in wetland restoration, and it is appreciated in horticulture for rain gardens. Traditionally, Native American tribes, such as the Ojibwa, have utilized bog birch for its medicinal properties and edible leaves.