Mongolian oak, scientifically known as Quercus mongolica, is a medium to large deciduous tree native to East Asia, including Japan, China, Korea, Mongolia, and Siberia. It typically grows 20–30 meters tall, with a broad, irregular crown and gray to black bark featuring deep longitudinal fissures. The leaves are obovate to oblong, measuring 10–20 cm long, with 7–10 rounded lobes on each side, and turn rosy-red in autumn. This species thrives in mixed forests at elevations of 200–2,500 meters and is winter-hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. It prefers rich, moist, well-drained loams but tolerates sandy or clay soils. Mongolian oak produces small, ovoid acorns (1.5–2.4 cm long) enclosed in scaly cups, maturing in September–October. Uses: The wood is highly valued for its durability, strength, and attractive grain, making it ...
Birch is a lightweight, versatile hardwood known for its fine grain, pale color, and wide range of applications. It typically features a creamy white to light yellowish-brown hue with subtle pink or gray undertones, often displaying attractive curly or wavy grain patterns. The wood has a uniform texture and a straight, slightly interlocked grain, making it easy to work with both hand and machine tools. Properties:Birch is moderately hard and strong, with a Janka hardness rating of 1,260 lbf (paper birch) to 1,470 lbf (yellow birch). It is stable, shock-resistant, and has good bending strength, though it is less durable than oak or maple when exposed to moisture. Birch finishes smoothly and accepts stains, paints, and varnishes well, but its light color may require careful staining to avoid blotchiness. Uses:Widely used in furniture, cabinetry, plywood, and veneers, birch...