Betula albosinensis - Deciduous - Chinese Red Birch, Chinese Red-barked Birch Page

Discover the captivating beauty of Betula albosinensis, commonly known as Chinese Red Birch or Chinese Red-barked Birch. Renowned for its striking exfoliating bark, this exquisite tree elevates any landscape with its enchanting visual appeal. Mature trees showcase a breathtaking display as large sheets of pinkish beige, paper-like bark peel away, revealing smooth patches of chestnut brown—a spectacle truly magnified when backlit by the setting sun. With an upright rounded form, its dark yellow-green leaves transform to a bright golden hue in the fall, complemented by light copper-brown, shiny bark and golden catkins that enhance its allure throughout the year.

Ideal for USDA Zones 5 to 8, Chinese Red-barked Birch thrives in full sun to light shade and adapts to various soil types, from well-drained to moist, sandy sites, or clay soils. While it requires ample space to mature, this drought-tolerant tree reaches heights of up to 70 feet and spreads 30 feet wide, with a moderate to fast growth rate. Its open habit, single or multi-trunked options, and minimal maintenance needs make it a perfect, graceful addition to expansive landscapes, providing a beautiful trunk and delicate branching for an exceptional garden feature.