Betula pendula

Description:

Silver Birch is a native tree widely seen growing en-mass throughout the UK in moorland and wooded locations. It makes a wonderful garden tree with an elegant light green canopy and sunning white bark, spring catkins and yellow autumn foliage.  As a European native, it is a fantastic choice for wildlife, supporting over 300 species of insect and attracting a variety of birds which feast on the seeds. This medium sized tree needs room to spread out and shallow roots mean that underplanting is limited to plants which will tolerate dry, dappled-shade. Combinations such as Liriope, Epimedium, Ferns and Pulmonaria thrive in such conditions and create a beautiful woodland edge feel. It is a speedy grower (around 50cm annually) but is relatively short-lived (around 60 years) compared to other trees. It will grow in a wide range of situations and is most effective when planted in small groups.

Resistance to Pests and Diseases:

Sawflies, aphids and leaf- mining sawflies may be a problem

Soil Moisture Requirements:

Moist but well-drained or well drained

Flowering colour:

Green catkins

Height & Spread:

25m x 10 cm in 20-50 years

Flowering Period:

March - April

Soil PH:

Acid, Neutral, Alkaline
(Any)

Soil Type:

Deciduous:

Maintenance:

Scented:

Wildlife Friendly:

Plant Aspect: