Large forests of birch can be found in Karelia (a region near Russia and Findland) but the flame/burl figure is uncommon and very highly sought-after. The Finnish government requires loggers and lumber producers to follow exacting guidelines and abide by quotas which are strictly enforced.

This is not actually a true burl, nor is Karelian Birch an actual species. In most cases the species is Silver Birch, and the fire-like grain pattern is thought to be hereditary. Regardless, this is an exceptionally beautiful wood that is sometimes overlooked and under-appreciated.