Birch's botanical name is Betula alleghaniensis. It's color is a cream or light brown tinged with red. The tree isthe largest of the North American birches. The tree usually reaches about 65 feet in height with a straight, tapering trunk generally about 30" in diameter. Birch is a straight-grained wood with fine even texture. Heavy and very strong. Straight-grain lumber works well. however, swirly or irregular grain may be difficult to machine without tear out. Typical uses include furniture, joinery, flooring, turning, and high grade plywood. It is usually found in eastern Canada and the eastern USA.