Birch leaves are traditionally used to decorate the Swedish Midsummer maypole.
The Swedish pole, called a midsommarstång or majstång, is covered with fresh greenery and often flowers before it is raised for dancing and singing. Birch is especially associated with Swedish summer because its light green leaves are abundant around Midsummer and are also used in wreaths, household decorations and other seasonal displays.
Swedish Midsummer is celebrated near the summer solstice, with the main public holiday falling on the Friday between 19 and 25 June. The maypole stands at the center of many gatherings, where people dance around it, including the well-known frog dance. The surrounding greenery historically carried associations with growth, health and good fortune.
The word maypole can mislead readers: in Sweden, the pole is generally raised at Midsummer rather than on 1 May. The Swedish term majstång is often explained through maja, meaning to decorate with leaves and flowers, rather than directly referring to the month of May. Birch leaves are the characteristic answer, though flowers and other greenery may be added.