Even when shot with a bullet, the bullet makes only a faint mark on this type of tree, unable to cause any significant damage.
In the natural world, many miraculous occurrences can leave humanity in wonder. The type of tree discussed here is one such example. This tree is known as the iron birch or black birch (Betula schmidtii), and it is also referred to as the “king of woods.”
The iron birch is widely cultivated in Primorsky Krai, Russia. It is also known as Schmidt’s birch, named after the Russian scientist who discovered this species in his honor.
The black birch is referred to as the “king of woods.” (Photo: Pixabay).
The black birch is a rare hardwood, with mature trees reaching a diameter of 0.7 meters and a height of 20 meters. The outer bark is bright red or black with white spots. The leaves are short and oval-shaped. Black birches typically grow in mountainous regions over 700 meters above sea level. The iron birch has an average lifespan of 300 – 350 years. It prefers sunlight and is well-suited to withstand cold and drought. Black birches can be found on Honshu Island in Japan, northern Korea, Russia, and China.
A standout characteristic of the black birch is that its wood is the hardest in the world, four times harder than acacia and twice as hard as steel. If something strikes the trunk, it produces a sound like “dang dang,” resembling a metallic clang. Additionally, if a knife is drawn against the trunk, the wood remains unscathed. In fact, the black birch can withstand bullets, as even when shot, the bullet only leaves a faint mark, unable to penetrate deeply. Moreover, even when submerged in water, the trunk of the black birch remains dry, able to stay dry for an extended period as water cannot seep inside. So, why is this wood so exceptionally hard?
In reality, the reason lies in the unique growth mechanism of the iron birch. According to experts, the iron birch possesses a special self-developing organ that continuously absorbs essential nutrients, including minerals, carbon dioxide, and water. Through complex biochemical reactions, these substances gradually condense and compress into dense fibers within the trunk and branches. Over time, this accumulation makes the wood of the iron birch extremely hard.
Furthermore, the growing environment of the iron birch also plays a crucial role in establishing it as the “king of trees.” Typically, iron birches thrive in temperate regions with long winters and nutrient-poor soil. To survive in such environments, this tree must adapt and accumulate the nutrients available. This adaptation process leads to the wood fibers of the iron birch being incredibly tight and sturdy.
Scientific research shows that the wood fibers of the iron birch are rich in lignin and cellulose. These components form a structure similar to composite materials in high-pressure environments, which also contributes to its remarkable hardness.
The black birch can withstand bullets. (Photo: Pixabay).
According to scientists, the special ability of the black birch lies in its bark. The bark is non-elastic, creating a strong reaction force that prevents deformation when subjected to intense impact. The wood of the black birch is incredibly hard due to the high density of iron in its wood molecules. Because of these numerous advantages, the black birch is highly sought after, pushing this tree species to the brink of extinction.
The wood of the black birch, being extremely hard, is often used to manufacture aerospace components, automotive parts, cruisers, and piping… It is also used as a substitute for steel and is quite expensive. Previously, black birch was used to make billiard balls and bearings, effectively utilized in high-speed trains to prevent water penetration and rust.
The black birch is often used to produce aerospace components. (Photo: Pixabay).
Not only is the black birch a rare hardwood, it is also a valuable herbal remedy. The leaves and trunk, when processed into a decoction, can treat edema, swelling, gout, urinary edema, and rheumatism. The tree can also be used as a remedy for various forms of eczema, wounds, hair loss, and acne.
Currently, due to over-exploitation and slow growth rates, the black birch is becoming increasingly scarce and is listed among the endangered species that need protection.
