The Gray Birch, also known as Betula populifolia, is a deciduous tree native to North America. It is known for its distinctive white bark and delicate, airy foliage.
The Gray Birch typically grows to a height of 20 to 40 feet (6 to 12 meters) with a spread of 15 to 25 feet (4.5 to 7.5 meters). It has a slender, upright form and its branches tend to droop slightly. The bark of the Gray Birch is smooth and white, with black horizontal markings that add visual interest.
The leaves of the Gray Birch are triangular or diamond-shaped, with serrated edges. They are a light green color during the growing season and turn yellow in the fall before dropping off. The tree produces small, cone-like fruits that contain tiny seeds.
Gray Birch trees are adaptable and can grow in a variety of soil conditions, including poor or rocky soils. They are often used in landscaping for their attractive bark and their ability to add a vertical element to gardens or natural areas. They also provide food and habitat for various bird species and other wildlife.
|
Type:
|
Tree
|
|
Origins:
|
Northeast N. America
|
|
Height:
|
20’ - 40’
|
|
Spread:
|
10’ - 20’
|
|
Spacing:
|
15’
|
|
USDA Hardiness Zone:
|
3 - 8
|
|
Culture:
|
Full Sun, Part Sun
|
|
Bloom Color:
|
Yellow
|
|
Season of Interest:
|
Fall, Year-Round
|
MAINTENANCE NEEDS: Low maintenance. Can be susceptible to the bronze birch borer, a pest that can cause significant damage. Regular monitoring for signs of infestation, such as D-shaped exit holes in the bark, is recommended. It's also prone to several diseases, including leaf spot and canker. Regular pruning can help maintain the tree's health and appearance.
LANDSCAPE USES: Specimen planting or Grove, Wetlands and ponds, Woodland Garden, Naturalized Areas, Native Garden, and Shade Tree.
COMPANION PLANTS: Dogwood, Serviceberry, Witch Hazel
IMAGES: Richtid, Betula populifolia leaves, CC BY-SA 3.0, (2) Ayotte, Gilles, 1948-, Betula populifolia 15-p.bot-bet.popul-016, CC BY-SA 4.0, (3) TeunSpaans, Betula populifolia 01-10-2005 14.47.42, CC BY-SA 3.0
*As plants have ranges in appearance they may not appear as the images shown.
