Betula pubescens - Deciduous - Downy Birch, White Birch Page

Betula pubescens, also known as Downy Birch or White Birch, is a deciduous tree native to northern Europe, Iceland, northern Asia, and even Greenland. Its bark is white, gray, or brownish and is used for various purposes, such as making drinking vessels, canoe skins, and roofing tiles. The wood is also commonly used for pulp and plywood. This tree grows 30-75 ft me tall and features a slender crown and a trunk with smooth, dull grey-white bark. It produces wind pollinated catkins in early spring before its leaves. It is often confused with Silver Birch, but they are separate species with distinct differences such as genetic makeup and habitat requirements. Downy Birch is hardy and can grow in various soil types ranging from light to heavy, nutritionally poor to acidic. It cannot grow in the shade and can tolerate strong winds but not maritime exposure. Downy Birch is also noted for attracting wildlife. If you're looking for a beautiful tree with many uses, consider Betula pubescens.