Betula populifolia
Commonly known as gray birch, this tree is easily recognized on the High Line, displaying chalky white bark punctuated by distinct black triangular markings just below the branch collar.
Betula populifolia serves as a valuable nurse plant in the wild, providing protection to seedlings. This allows other valuable species to flourish in sites that would otherwise be inhospitable. Considered a pioneer species, it is often found growing along abandoned railroad tracks and other disturbed sites where other trees have a hard time establishing themselves.
Betula populifolia can be found throughout the High Line.
