BETULA PAPYRIFERA / PAPER BIRCH

BETULA PAPYRIFERA / PAPER BIRCH

A Graceful Native Tree with Iconic White Bark

Betula papyrifera, commonly known as Paper Birch, is a striking native tree renowned for its bright white, peeling bark, delicate green foliage, and elegant form. Thriving in full sun with moist, well-drained soils, Paper Birch adds architectural beauty, seasonal interest, and ecological value to woodlands, large landscapes, and naturalized areas. Its bark provides winter interest and its foliage turns golden yellow in autumn.

Why Choose Paper Birch?

Native & Wildlife Friendly: Provides food and shelter for birds and small mammals.
Ornamental Bark: Bright white bark peels in layers, creating year-round visual interest.
Seasonal Foliage: Glossy green leaves in spring and summer, turning golden yellow in fall.
Low Maintenance: Adaptable to well-drained soils; a long-lived, resilient native tree.

Key Features:

Foliage Color: Glossy green leaves turning bright yellow in fall.
Bark Color: Iconic white bark that peels in papery layers.
Height and Spread: Typically grows 50–70 feet tall and 30–40 feet wide.
Hardiness: Hardy to USDA Zones 2–6.
Sunlight: Prefers full sun.
Soil Requirements: Moist, well-drained soils; tolerates loam, sandy, and slightly acidic conditions.

Specifications:

Plant Size: 50–70 feet tall, 30–40 feet wide.
Growth Habit: Upright, pyramidal to oval tree with graceful branching.
Hardiness: USDA Zones 2–6.
Flowering: Catkins appear in spring; inconspicuous.
Fall Interest: Brilliant yellow foliage and striking white bark.

Ideal Uses:

Woodland & Naturalized Landscapes: Perfect for forested areas and large naturalized gardens.
Specimen Plantings: Makes a dramatic focal point with its white bark and elegant form.
Wildlife Gardens: Supports birds and small mammals.
Low-Maintenance Landscapes: Resilient and long-lived with minimal care once established.

Paper Birch is an iconic and ecologically valuable native tree. Its peeling white bark, golden autumn foliage, and wildlife benefits make it a standout choice for woodlands, naturalized landscapes, and large ornamental gardens.