Size
Ultimate height
4–8 metresTime to ultimate height
10–20 yearsUltimate spread
4–8 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Poorly–drained, Well–drainedpH
Neutral, Alkaline, AcidColour & scent
Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
Spring | Green | |||
---|---|---|---|---|
Summer | Green | |||
Autumn | Yellow | |||
Winter |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
West–facing or South–facing or East–facing or North–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H7Botanical details
- Family
- Betulaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Bushy
- Genus
Betula can be deciduous trees or shrubs, usually colouring well in autumn and often with striking white, pink, or peeling brown bark; separate male and female catkins open before or with the leaves in spring
- Name status
Accepted
How to grow
Cultivation
Will grow in a wide range of situations including by water or in well-drained soil. Prefers an acidic to neutral soil, although will tolerate slightly alkaline conditions. See tree cultivation for further advice
Propagation
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Architectural
- Wildlife gardens
- Low Maintenance
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Pests
May be susceptible to birch borers, leaf-mining sawflies and aphids
Diseases
May be susceptible to honey fungus, a tree rust and powdery mildews
Love gardening
Sign up to receive regular gardening tips, inspiration, offers and more
View our Privacy Policy
Get involved
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.