Cherry birch (Betula lenta)

Also known as sweet birch, cherry birch grows best in moist, acidic, sandy, or rocky, well-drained areas in full sun to partial shade. It is native to eastern North America and is commonly found in forests of both low and high elevations. Cherry birch has brown or black bark and young trees are marked by thin horizontal stripes.

It is a popular tree to be used for fuelwood or lumber products. Its sap was once used as an ingredient in birch beer and in wintergreen oil which was used as a preservative and medicinal rub. It can be a food source for white-tailed deer, moose, and cottontail rabbits as well as grouse who like to eat the seeds and buds.

This unique find makes for an interesting stop!