European White Birch

(Betula pendula)

August 1996

Summary:

Foliage: Deciduous broadleaf
Height: 40 to 50 feet
Spread: 25 to 35 feet
Shape: Upright

Small, glossy-green summer foliage turns yellow in fall exposing ornamental white bark.

Plant Needs:

Zone: 3 to 6
Light: Partial shade to full sun
Moisture: Moist
Soil Type: Sandy, loam, or clay
pH Range: 3.7 to 6.5

Functions:

Suggested uses for this plant include shade and specimen plant.

Planting Notes:

Transplants readily.
Plant in spring.
More pH tolerant than River Birch.
Prefers moist, well-drained, sandy or loam soil.

Care:

A regular spray program is necessary to control the bronze birch borer.
Prune in summer or fall.
Late winter or early spring pruning causes excessive bleeding of sap.

Problems:

Extremely susceptible to the bronze birch borer, which can destroy a large tree in one season.

Alternatives:

Consult local sources, including historic or public gardens and arboreta, regarding cultivars and related species that grow well in your area.

Cultivars of BETULA PENDULA:
`Youngii' is a cultivar with a graceful weeping growth habit.
`Gracilis' is a pendulous form with a finely cut leaf.

Comments:

The European White Birch is a very graceful, relatively short-lived tree grown for its ornamental white bark.
Usually grown in clumps or "groves".
Suitable for bonsai.

Additional Materials:

The PRUNING SERIES videotape can be ordered through your local Extension office.
The following Extension publications can be ordered from your local Extension office or directly from: Extension Distribution Center 112 Landsdowne Street Blacksburg, VA 24061
#426-601 "The Art of Bonsai"
#426-500 "Winter Injury to Trees and Shrubs"
#426-610 "Selecting Landscape Plants - Shade Trees"

This material was developed by Carol Ness as part of the Interactive Design and Development Project funded by the Kellogg Foundation. Mary Miller, Project Director. Diane Relf, Content Specialist, Horticulture. Copyright 1989 by VCE.

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