Maple syrup, naturally sweet with its lush notes of vanilla and caramel, is one of the first signs of spring. Now, maple’s lesser-known forest cousin birch is having its day. Nature’s unrequited gifts ...

Winter unveils 3-4 pre-formed staminate catkins on shoots that blossom in early spring, complemented by yellowish to dark brown, somewhat hairy twigs that emit a mild and sweet birch aroma: noteworthy ...