Discover the majestic beauty of the Betula platyphylla var. szechuanica, also known as Szechwan Asian White Birch. Standing at 15-40 f tall, this tree's striking features include its white or silvery-gray, velvety reddish bark that peels thin layers, accentuating its lustrous aesthetics.
Unique to this variety are its leaves – triangular to ovate, each measuring up to 6 cm long and 5 cm wide. The cuneate base, short acuminate apex, and irregularly serrated margins give the foliage a dense, leathery look. The leaves on both sides are glabrous, with the bottom densely spotted with glands, a key identifier (Krüssmann, 1976). The leaves also have an extended lifespan, persisting until late fall for year-round vibrancy.
The tree, recognized as the Sichuan or Szechuan birch, derives its origins from western China. It is conical in shape, growing up to 40 ft in height. Accompanied by white bark and yellow-green male catkins or green female catkins, it also showcases dark, blue-green leaves, painting a vivid picture of nature's grace. Step into the vibrant world of Betula platyphylla var. szechuanica and enrich your landscape today.