Tree

Silver Birch

Betula pendula

A graceful native tree with white peeling bark and airy canopy.

  • Full sun, Partial shade
  • 1–25 m
  • 4–8 m
  • H6
  • April
  • Deciduous

Overview

Betula pendula is a fast-growing deciduous tree valued for its striking white bark and delicate, weeping branch habit. Excellent for wildlife and autumn colour.

At a Glance

Sun Full sun, Partial shade
Height 1–25 m
Spread 4–8 m
Hardiness H6
Flowers April
Soil Clay, Loam, Sand
Moisture Moist well drained
Habit Upright
Water Low
Maintenance Easy

Growing Conditions

Min. Temperature -20°C
Fertility Average
Drainage Free Draining

Aspect Suitability

  • North-facing
  • East-facing
  • South-facing
  • West-facing

Site Tolerance

  • Wind
  • Drought

Foliage

Persistence Deciduous
Colour Green
  • Autumn colour

Foliage interest: September–October

Seasonal Timeline

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
Flowering
Foliage
Propagate
  • Flowering Apr
  • Foliage Sep Oct
  • Propagate Oct Nov

Maintenance Calendar

  • Mar Remove damaged or crossing branches
  • Oct Check for aphids

Garden Design

Works well in: Contemporary, Woodland

Wildlife Value

  • Bees
  • Birds