Range.—Northern states to Florida and Texas.
Distribution in West Virginia.—Common throughout the State.
Habitat.—Moist soil of stream borders, swamps and hillsides.
Notes.—This species, commonly called Water Beech, is of no commercial importance, but is attractive on lawns, especially in autumn, and performs a valuable service in preventing the caving in of stream banks where it grows.
BLACK BIRCH
Betula lenta, L.
Form.—Height 50-85 feet, diameter 2-4 feet; trunk long and clear in dense growths; crown narrow and open.
Leaves.—Alternate in pairs, simple, 3-4 inches long; ovate to oblong, taper pointed, doubly serrate, dull dark green above, paler beneath; petioles short, hairy, grooved above.