**Description:** A tree with shiny, bronzy-yellow bark that peels in thin, papery horizontal curls.
**Size:** Can reach heights of 60 to 80 feet.
**Identification:** Scrape a small twig to release a distinct scent of wintergreen. The bark is highly flammable and useful for fire-starting.
**Wildlife Value:** Songbirds feed on the seeds within their cone-like catkins.
**Habitat:** Common on cool, moist slopes and along stream banks.