How can you tell if you have white or gray birch?

You can distinguish between white and gray birch by examining their bark and leaves. White birch (Betula papyrifera) has striking white, peeling bark with black markings, while gray birch (Betula populifolia) features grayish, less conspicuous bark that does not peel as readily. Additionally, the leaves of white birch are typically more triangular and have a sharp point, while gray birch leaves are more oval-shaped with a rounded tip. Observing these characteristics can help you accurately identify each species.