White Birch

Scientific name

Betula papyrifera

Description

The Paper Birch is a medium-sized (15-25m), deciduous tree which may also be referred to as White Birch or Canoe Birch. This species produces a sparse, irregular crown which arises from a slender trunk. This tree is best known for distinctive white, horizontally flaking bark, from which its name is derived. The Paper Birch produces light green, egg-shaped, 5-10 cm long leaves alternately arranged. During the fall, the light green foliage turns a bright yellow colour. During the spring, catkins appear and produce winged seed keys which mature and drop between the fall and following spring.

Planting conditions

The Paper Birch best in full sun, on cool, moist, well-drained soils, facing north or east on slopes. Adaptable to different soil textures, except for clay. Shade intolerant. Tolerant of occasional flooding.

Details

• Plant height:
  • Any
  • Over 3m
• Moisture level:
  • Moist
  • Wet
  • Flood Tolerant
• Light conditions:
  • Full sun
  • Partial sun
• Soil type:
  • Sandy
  • Loamy
• pH:
  • Normal
• Depth:
  • Potted
  • Bareroot
• Eco Zone:
  • 1a
  • 1b
  • 2a
  • 2b
  • 3a
  • 3b
  • 4a
  • 4b
  • 5a
  • 5b
  • 6a
  • 6b
• Plant type:
  • Tree
• Height:
  • 15-25m
• Spread:
  • 3m