Betula papyrifera
Paper Birch
Please register or login to build your personal plant list.Paper Birch is a short-lived deciduous tree with beautiful, white bark that that peels in papery strips. Catkins (elongated, drooping clusters of...
Description:
Paper Birch is a short-lived deciduous tree with beautiful, white bark that that peels in papery strips. Catkins (elongated, drooping clusters of tiny flowers without petals) appear just before the leaves emerge. The flowers are followed by cone-like fruits holding small, winged seeds. The seeds are a food source for a variety of birds. The dark green leaves turn yellow in the fall. Paper Birch grows best in areas where the soil is shaded, cool, and moist. Keep the root system moist by using mulch and watering during dry weather. This tree can be short-lived in New Jersey. It does not tolerate heat and humidity well, and grows best in areas with cool summers. Under the proper growing conditions, Paper Birch is an excellent specimen tree. It can also be used in woodland gardens.
Plant Details:
Plant Type: Tree
New Jersey Native: Yes
Bloom Times: Spring
Bloom Colors: Yellow, Green, Brown
Deer Resistance: High
Attracts Pollinators and Wildlife: Birds
Salt Tolerance: Medium
Hardiness Zone: 6a
Physiographic Region: Ridge & Valley - RV, Piedmont - P, Highland - H
Soil Characteristics
Soil Type: Loam, Organic, Sandy, Clay
Soil Moisture: Dry, Moist
Soil pH: Acidic, Slightly Acidic, Neutral
Light Needs of Plant
Optimal Light: Full Sun
Light Range: Full Sun, Partial Shade
Water Needs of Plant
Soil Moisture: Dry, Moist
Drought Tolerance: Low
Size and Growth Rate
Height: 50 - 70 ft
Spread: 25 - 50 ft
Growth Rate: Fast