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White trunk of a Silver Birch with fine pendulous branchesTrees

Betula pendula

Silver Birch

birchwhite barkfast-growingautumn colournative tree

Silver Birch is a graceful, fast-growing tree with striking white bark that peels in thin layers over the years. The fine, pendulous branches give the tree an airy, elegant silhouette. In autumn, the small triangular leaves turn bright yellow.

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Before
After

Characteristics

Sun
Full sun
Water
Medium
Height
1000–2500 cm
Spread
400–800 cm
Hardiness zone
2–7
Family
Betulaceae
Evergreen
No
Flower colors
green
Wildlife value
birds, bees

Bloom period

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Care guide

Plant in full sun in well-drained soil. Birch is not fussy about soil type and grows even in poor, sandy ground. The tree has shallow roots — avoid disturbing the soil around the trunk. Water young trees during prolonged drought.

Pruning tips

Prune only in summer or early autumn — birch bleeds heavily if pruned in spring. Remove dead and crossing branches. Avoid heavy pruning; the tree recovers poorly from it.

Good companions

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Full shadeMedium50–90 cm
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Soft Shield Fern

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Partial shadeMedium