Gaelic mythology consider the birch a tree diagram of beginnings often thought to symbolize refilling and refining . It ’s interesting to note the tree diagram is a pioneer species , and one of the first saplings to become established in an area recently enlighten by flack .
for certain the Celts observed birch ’s proclivity to boom in these environment . This tenacious behavior no doubt help to work their feeling about the tree .
Birches are deciduous , hardwood tree widespread across the northern cerebral hemisphere , with more than 60 identified species . And the tree offer a wide range of applications including timber , to make paper , for crafting medicines and as ornamentals .
Many metal money are short - lived , but they are still a welcome plus to the landscape painting . From syrup to birch rod leaf tea , these decorative trees offer both dish and functionality to those that either raise or forage their ware .
In the Kitchen
you may eat on many section of the birch Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree , though you ’ll see some parts more toothsome than others . harvest home immature leaves to waste fresh or steam . Same with the small twigs — though you may need to cook them a minute longer .
endemic foragers have long utilized the privileged barque to make a non - emerging flour . The flavor is reminiscent of mountain tea . And the sweetened birch rod , Betula lenta , is widely think to be the most flavorful .
Much like lettuce maple , birch rod tree diagram can be tapped in the springtime for sap assemblage . This sap is loaded with micronutrient and can be enjoyed as is or boiled down into sirup . Due to birch sap ’s low sugar content , it takes approximately 100 gallons of birch tree sap to make just 1 gallon of syrup .
liken this to maple ’s 40:1 product ratio and you ’ll understand why birch sirup get such a high price on the market place . It often sell for more than $ 200 per gallon !
Read more : Learn about the “ tree from seed ” ism of propagate Tree !
In the Apothecary
Birch Tree offer a wide range of uses and benefit for the herbal medicine maker . The tree has long been utilize for its anti - inflammatory , antiseptic and astringent qualities .
Boil the unseasoned leaves in water to make a potent mouthwash to avail prevent gum disease and spoilt breathing space . you could use this same decoction as a facewash to avail soothe pissed skin and problematic acne .
Twigs steep in 100 substantiation vodka make a tincture useful for relieving sore and hackneyed muscles . This anti - inflammatory action derives in part due to methyl salicylates base in the wood . These same compounds give birch that familiar wintergreen flavor .
Read more : Mint is gravely coolheaded !
Growing Birch
you’re able to witness birch trees growing in temperate and boreal mood across the northerly hemisphere .
Typically these trees do n’t live long , but lifespan vary from one coinage to the next . Yellow birch tree , B. alleghaniensis , can know well over 100 long time . White birch , B. papyrafera , however , may only live to be 40 to 50 years quondam .
Generally speaking , you may grow these trees quite well . They prefer full sun but also enjoy moist , nerveless soil . seek to place the Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree on the east or north side of your property so that your home can provide afternoon shade .
Birch are hungry trees and will want to be well - watered for boom . count using wood chips or leafage compost to mulch around the base of the Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree to serve maintain soil moisture .
With their striking appearance , birch tree trees can be enjoy as an excellent focal point for your landscape design . Or you may employ them to create an challenging optic force along walkway or garden paths .
