This northeastern tree has several disjunct populations along southwestern portions of its range; see notes under var. macrolepis. The species is a polyploid (2n = 84) like most other northern species of Betula, in marked contrast to nigra and lenta (2n = 28; FNA 3). With shoots alone, alleghaniensis can still usually be distinguished from lenta. It tends to have more hairy twigs and buds (versus largely glabrous). Lower leaf surfaces tend have more widespread hairs (versus largely restricted to major veins), and resinous dots are more distinct. Leaf serrations tend to be less regular. Buds tend to be less sharp-pointed.