BETULA LENTA / SWEET BIRCH

BETULA LENTA / SWEET BIRCH

Aromatic Tree with Rich Fall Color and Valuable Timber

Betula lenta, commonly known as Sweet Birch or Black Birch, is a deciduous tree native to North America. Known for its aromatic bark and beautiful fall color, Sweet Birch is often prized for its timber, which is used in furniture making. This medium-sized tree adds a striking presence in landscapes, particularly in woodland or naturalized settings.

Why Choose Sweet Birch?

• Aromatic Bark: The bark has a distinctive wintergreen scent, which is particularly noticeable when crushed.
• Vibrant Fall Foliage: Sweet Birch offers stunning yellow to orange foliage in the fall, creating a vibrant display in the landscape.
• Attractive, Smooth Bark: The dark brown to black bark becomes smoother with age, offering textural interest to the tree.
• Valuable Timber: The wood is dense and used in fine woodworking, cabinetry, and even for syrup production in a similar way to sugar maple.
• Wildlife-Friendly: The tree provides habitat and food for a variety of wildlife species, including birds and squirrels.

Key Features:

• Wintergreen Scent: The crushed leaves and bark release a distinctive wintergreen aroma, making it a sensory addition to the landscape.
• Dark, Smooth Bark: The bark is dark brown to black and smoothens as the tree matures, offering a striking appearance, especially in winter.
• Yellow to Orange Fall Color: In autumn, the foliage turns from yellow to a rich orange-red, creating a colorful contrast in the landscape.
• Moderate Growth Rate: While not the fastest-growing birch, it is a reliable grower over time.
• Tolerant of Various Soil Types: Sweet Birch is adaptable to many soil conditions, including slightly acidic soils.

Specifications:

• Plant Size: 40–60 feet tall, 30–40 feet wide.
• Hardiness: USDA Zones 3–7.
• Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade.
• Soil Requirements: Prefers moist, well-drained soils but is adaptable to different soil types, including sandy or loamy soil.

Ideal Uses:

• Woodland Gardens & Naturalized Areas: Sweet Birch thrives in wooded settings, making it an ideal choice for forest-like gardens or as part of a natural landscape design.
• Specimen Tree: Its aromatic bark and vibrant fall color make it an excellent specimen tree in larger landscapes.
• Wildlife Habitats: The tree provides valuable habitat and food for birds and mammals, making it a great addition to wildlife gardens.
• Shade Tree: Its moderate size and broad canopy make it an excellent choice for providing shade in parks or along streets.

Betula lenta (Sweet Birch) is a versatile and attractive tree with both aesthetic and functional benefits. From its aromatic bark to its beautiful fall foliage, it adds year-round interest to landscapes while also supporting local wildlife. Perfect for woodland gardens, natural areas, or as a specimen tree, it is a fantastic addition to any outdoor space.

NATIVE TO ONTARIO