The white birch is one of Russia's main symbols.

Named for its thin and smooth white bark, which often peels like layers from the trunk, the tree is probably the most common and also the most beloved plant in the country.

If you walk in the vast Siberian forests, the tree is everywhere.

For centuries, the Russian people have been using sap from the tree in food, drinks and for its medical properties.

It's also very important to the Russian culture, appearing in numerous literature works including those of world famous writers Maxim Gorky and Sergei Yesenin, as well as folk songs.

About 'Plants & Nations' 

"Plants & Nations" is a series of articles and pictures about common plants in the world. It serves as a guide to beautiful plants from different countries. 

For more articles and pictures, please click here:

Jade vine: The exotic plant of the Philippines

A sacred plant in Cambodia's Buddhist culture

Saffron: A magical ingredient in Persian culture

(All images via VCG)

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