• Black birch trees are found in a many areas of the U.S. and have many of the same basic characteristics as other types of birch trees. The black birch grows to heights of around 50 feet and has a branch structure that forms a cone shape. The width of the tree's branches, at its widest point, is generally around 20 to 30 feet. The black birch prefers areas that aren't prone to drought, and they are only mildly susceptible to diseases.
  
  

Names

• The black birch gets its name from the appearance of the bark. The bark on the surface of the tree is a near-black color that is thicker than some varieties of birch trees that have paper-thin covering. The tree is also referred to as a "sweet" birch, because of the tree's sap, which resembles that of the maple. However, black birch sap is a bit more difficult to get out and is not as plentiful as maple tree sap, so it cannot be used for syrup.
  
  

Wood

• Black birch trees have a strong core that is harder than other types of birch, as well as harder than many other types of trees. The hard, compact wood in the center of the black birch is the reason for its other nickname, "mountain mahogany." The wood of the tree is harvested and used in many products that require solid, strong construction such as furniture, flooring, cabinets and various other products.
  
  

Soil

• Black birch trees grow best in acidic soil that is damp, but not wet. When planting a new tree, be sure that the soil drains well so that it does not get too soggy. The black birch also has shallow roots that have difficulty growing in thick clay soils. For this reason, it is best to avoid planting the trees in compact earth. If clay soil is all you have to work with, however, try mixing mulch and other organic material in with dirt to improve the drainage.
  
  

Twigs

• The sap of a black birch isn't the only part of the tree that can be used for food. Scrape off the top layer on a twig and you will get the distinct smell of wintergreen. This smell is coming from the green wood. The twigs can be chewed to improve breath as well as boiled in water to make a tea-like drink.