Betula alleghaniensis (Yellow Birch)

Listed as endangered in Illinois. Attractive bark appears lustrous, peeling away in papery sheets curling along margins. Twigs smell and taste like wintergreen.

Associates: Ilex verticillata (Winterberry), Larix laricina (American Larch), Lindera benzoin (Spicebush), Nyssa sylvatica (Sour Gum), Osmunda cinnamomea (Cinnamon Fern), Osmunda regalis (Royal Fern), Pinus strobus (White Pine), Sambucus pubens (Red Elderberry)