Birch trees (Betula betulaceae) correspond with the ancient Celtic letter, Beth, and are found in the northern hemisphere in relatively moderate climates. They are small to medium-sized deciduous trees (loses their leaves in Autumn). The broad leaves of these trees often appear in pairs. The seeds are winged and often called 'keys' or helicopters'. The bark, which peels off laterally, is white and papery. Three-flowered cone-liked clusters of white, yellow and brown, 3 to 6 mm, can be seen opening with or before the leaves bud. They grow in light, well-drained, acidic soil. They are a pioneer species, meaning that they are the first to colonize a damaged ecosystem and after a forest burning, they are the first to grow back.


A wand made of birch is useful in healing, as well as fighting Dementors as it will produce a strong Patronus. These wands are for sale in Hogsmeade, and not in Diagon Alley.