Betula utilis is one of the important ethnobotanical species of the Himalayan treeline zone. The outer bark of this tree species has been used historically for writing as well as for making medicines. The multiple historical uses and subsequent overharvesting of Betula utilis for meeting the needs of communities and market forces have mounted pressures on its natural populations. The present study, therefore, aims to review and document information on traditional uses, population density and commercial aspects of this valuable tree species. The study further analyses the concerns of conservation and management of this species in view of its importance for ecological, ethnobotanical and economical perspectives.

Betula utilis, treeline zone, himalaya, indigenous uses, population density, conservation and management