Betula pubescens aka Common White Birch

Taxonomy

Genus Betula Family Betulaceae Order Fagales Class Magnoliopsida Phylum Tracheophyta
Betula pubescens, also known as downy birch, moor birch, white birch, European white birch, or hairy birch, is a deciduous tree native to northern Europe and northern Asia. It is similar to the silver birch but grows in wetter areas with heavier soils and poorer drainage. This tree can reach heights of up to 20 meters and has slender, conical shape. Its bark is white and peeling, remaining white at the base. The leaves are mid-green and slightly rounded to diamond-shaped, turning yellow in autumn. In early spring, it produces yellow-brown catkins. Betula pubescens is a fast-growing species that is often replaced by taller, longer-lived trees as a pioneer species. It can tolerate various soil types and pH levels but does not thrive in shade or maritime exposure. The tree has various uses, including turnery, plywood, furniture, and wood flooring. Its inner bark is edible and has been used in bread-making during times of famine. The rising sap in spring can be used to make refreshing drinks, wines, ales, and liqueurs. Betula pubescens is also associated with many fungi, some of which cause birch dieback disease. It attracts wildlife and is pollinated by wind. Its range extends from Newfoundland and Iceland to central Europe and Asia, with its northernmost limit being the Arctic. In subarctic regions, it takes on a contorted form and is known as arctic downy birch or mountain birch. This variety is native to Iceland and Greenland, where it forms woodland.

Common names

Common White Birch, Silver Birch, Downy Birch

How to care for Common White Birch

Difficulty

Common White Birch requires a bit more attention and knowledge to thrive, making it a suitable plant for those with some gardening experience.

Water

Common White Birch should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Common White Birch loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

To ensure optimal growth, the Common White Birch prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

Toxicity

Ploi does not possess verified information regarding the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event that you, a member of your family, or a pet ingests plant material with an unclear toxicity level, it is highly recommended to seek the advice of a medical professional.

Fertilizer

The growth of Common White Birch is gradual and it doesn't necessitate any additional fertilizers. Replacing the soil in its pot once a year should suffice to provide the plant with sufficient nutrition. It's important to keep in mind that plants derive their energy from the sun's rays, not fertilizers.

Region of origin

Common White Birch’s native range is Most of Europe, including Britain, east to W. Siberia and central Asia.

More info:
Wikipedia

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More Species in Betula Genus

Betula schmidtii

Betula pubescens Common White Birch

Betula cordifolia Mountain Paper Birch

Betula medwediewii Medwediew's Birch

Betula nigra River Birch

Betula utilis Himalayan Birch

Betula papyrifera Canoe Birch

Betula fruticosa Japanese Bog Birch

Betula lenta Cherry Birch

Betula ermanii Russian Rock Birch