Description
Easily recognizable for the horizontal lenticels on their thin, papery-plated bark. Birch trees are considered a pioneer species, making them especially prominent in places where there has been a disturbance, such as by wildfire or avalanche, as they are generally hardy and quick to grow. They are otherwise most often found in lowlands wetland habitats. While birch bark, is an invaluable resource, birch wood tends to be difficult to work with by hand.
Obtainment
Uses
Main Article:
- Toxicity: Potentially noxious but not lethal
Sources are mixed regarding the toxicity of birch trees. Birch bark contains naturally-occurring sugars that can be used to make xylitol, which is lethal to canines, and undiluted oil from the cambium layer of the trees can pose serious adverse symptoms. However, it is unlikely that Luperci are capable of creating substances concentrated enough to cause serious toxicity or death. That said, ingestion or topical use of birch-derived products in large quantities may lead to unpleasant symptoms.
Part: Bark; Oil
Symptoms: Vomiting, abdominal distress, diarrhea (oral Rash, irritation (topical)
Medicinal
Comments