Jesse Saylor
Family
Betulaceae
Botanical Name
BETULA papyrifera
Plant Common Name
Paper Birch
General Description
Paper birch is a medium to large, deciduous tree that is native of the extreme northern United States, Alaska and much of Canada. It is most valued for its beautiful white papery bark that is accented with bands of black. In fall its medium green leaves turn a pretty yellow, and in winter its stark white bark contrasts nicely with evergreens.
This very hardy tree does best in cold climates and excels in moist, but well drained sandy loam soils. Paper birch does not tolerate difficult sites, excessive summer heat or pollution and is susceptible to birch borer.
Characteristics
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AHS Heat Zone
7 - 1
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USDA Hardiness Zone
2 - 7
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Sunset Zone
A1, A2, A3, 1a, 1b, 2a, 2b, 3a, 3b, 4, 5, 6
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Plant Type
Tree
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Sun Exposure
Full Sun, Partial Sun
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Height
50'-70' / 15.2m - 21.3m
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Width
25'-35' / 7.6m - 10.7m
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Bloom Time
Spring
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Native To
North America, Northeastern United States, North-Central United States, Alaska, Canada
Ornamental Features
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Flower Interest
Showy
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Flower Color
Yellow
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Fruit Color
Black
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Foliage Color (Spring)
Light Green
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Foliage Color (Summer)
Dark Green
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Foliage Color (Fall)
Light Yellow, Gold
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Bark Color
White, Bronze, Black
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Bark Color Modifier
Striped/Striated
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Fragrant Flowers
No
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Fragrant Fruit
No
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Fragrant Foliage
No
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Bark or Stem Fragrant
No
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Repeat Bloomer
No
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Showy Fruit
No
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Edible Fruit
No
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Showy Foliage
No
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Foliage Texture
Medium
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Foliage Sheen
Glossy
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Evergreen
No
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Showy Bark
Yes
