Betula Lenta is commonly known as the black birch tree and has a number of synonyms that refer to its striking appearance and medicinal properties. It is also called cherry birch, sweet birch or even mahogany birch, due to its dark, reddish-brown colored bark. The tree is famous for its use in traditional medicine, as it contains methyl salicylate, which has pain relieving properties, and can be used for conditions including arthritis and rheumatism. Other synonyms include mountain mahogany, spice birch and fire birch, referring to the tree's natural habitat, distinct aroma and the blazing colors of its fall foliage.