Heart-leaved Birch
Betula cordifolia
''Betula cordifolia'' is a birch species native to Eastern Canada and the Northeastern United States. Until recently it was considered a variety of ''Betula papyrifera'', with which it shares many characteristics, and it was classified as ''B. papyrifera'' var.'' cordifolia'' Fern.
Not only are there genetic distinctions, but B. cordifolia is also much more restricted in range. In Minnesota it is found only in the extreme northeastern Arrowhead region. And not only are its leaves the characteristic heart-shape that gives it its common name, these leaves typically have more veins (9 to 12 pairs vs. 9 or fewer). Its bark, while white and papery, is thinner and less chalky than Paper Birch, almost shiny, staying smooth to the base of the trunk, and the inner bark is often a dark, cherry pink compared to the lighter reddish tan of Paper Birch.
Not only are there genetic distinctions, but B. cordifolia is also much more restricted in range. In Minnesota it is found only in the extreme northeastern Arrowhead region. And not only are its leaves the characteristic heart-shape that gives it its common name, these leaves typically have more veins (9 to 12 pairs vs. 9 or fewer). Its bark, while white and papery, is thinner and less chalky than Paper Birch, almost shiny, staying smooth to the base of the trunk, and the inner bark is often a dark, cherry pink compared to the lighter reddish tan of Paper Birch.