Betula 'Fetisowii'

RHS Plant Profile
birch 'Fetisowii'

Synonyms

Betula ermanii 'Fetisowii'

Trees

A slow-growing, deciduous hybrid tree with peeling creamy-white bark on the trunk and branches, and ovate leaves which emerge glossy-green in the spring and change to shades of yellow in the autumn. Suitable for smaller gardens, this variety has a narrower head than other varieties and in ideal conditions may reach a maximum height of around 6m. Will tolerate most types of soil, even wet, but best on acid soils to achieve the maximum height

Position

Full sun

Soil Types

Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand

Max Height

4-8 metres

Max Spread

2.5-4 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
5–10 years
Max Spread
2.5-4 metres
Max Height
4-8 metres

Growing Conditions

Chalk Clay Loam Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun
Aspect
East–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H7

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Betulaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Bushy
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
Accepted

How to Grow

Cultivation

Will grow in a wide range of situations, but best growth rate and habit will be achieved once established if planted in slightly more acidic soil in full sun

Propagation

Propagate by grafting

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Architectural
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Low Maintenance
  • Flower borders and beds

Pruning

Requires little pruning, pruning group 1

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