Betula papyrifera
paper birch
A deciduous tree of conical outline, with white bark peeling to reveal pale orange underbark; yellow male catkins and dark green leaves turning yellow in autumn
Other common names
canoe birchwhite birch
Synonyms
Betula papyrifera var. subcordataBetula platyphylla var. subcordata
see moreBetula lyalliana
Betula papyrifera var. commutata
Betula papyrifera var. papyrifera
Betula papyracea
Size
Ultimate height
Higher than 12 metresTime to ultimate height
20–50 yearsUltimate spread
Wider than 8 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Orange White | Yellow | Green | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Orange White | Green | Brown | |
| Autumn | Orange White | Yellow | ||
| Winter | Orange White |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
West–facing or East–facing or South–facing or North–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H7Botanical details
- Family
- Betulaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Columnar upright
- Genus
Betula can be deciduous trees or shrubs, usually colouring well in autumn and often with striking white, pink, or peeling brown bark; separate male and female catkins open before or with the leaves in spring
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- N America
How to grow
Cultivation
Will grow in a wide range of situations
Propagation
Propagate by seed, softwood cuttings or grafting
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Architectural
- Low Maintenance
Pruning
Pests
May be susceptible to birch borers, leaf-mining sawflies and aphids
Diseases
May be susceptible to honey fungus, a tree rust and powdery mildews
Get involved
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