Betula utilis aka Himalayan Birch
Taxonomy
Betula utilis, also known as the Himalayan birch or bhojpatra in Sanskrit, is a deciduous tree that is native to the Western Himalayas. It can grow up to 20 meters tall and is often found in forests alongside conifers and evergreen Rhododendron shrubs. The tree's white, paper-like bark has been used for writing Sanskrit scriptures and texts since ancient times, and is still used today as paper for sacred mantras. The Latin name for the species, utilis, means "useful" and refers to the many parts of the tree that are utilized. However, the tree's native habitat is being lost due to overuse for firewood. Selected varieties of Betula utilis are used for landscaping throughout the world.
As a houseplant, the Himalayan birch is a rare and challenging plant to grow that requires regular watering and long-lasting, direct light. It prefers soil that is well draining and should be repotted each time it doubles in size. The plant belongs to the Betula genus and is native to the Himalayas. The tree's ovate leaves are 5 to 10 cm long, slightly hairy, and have serrated margins. The tree typically flowers from May to July.
Common names
Himalayan Birch, Himalayan Silver Birch, Indian Paper BirchHow to care for Himalayan Birch
Difficulty
Even if you don't have a green thumb, you can successfully care for Himalayan Birch due to its easy-going nature.
Water
Himalayan Birch should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
Himalayan 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 Himalayan 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
There is no verified data on the toxicity of this plant in the records of Ploi. If any person, including yourself, a family member, or a pet, consume plant material with an uncertain toxicity level, it is advisable to seek the advice of a healthcare expert.
Fertilizer
The Himalayan Birch is characterized by its slow growth and doesn't need fertilization in addition to its potting soil. By renewing the soil in its pot once a year, it should have enough nutrition. Remember, plants get their energy from sunlight, not from any fertilizers.
Region of origin
Himalayan Birch’s native range is E. Asia - Himalayas to S.W. China.
More info:
Wikipedia
More Species in Betula Genus
Betula populifolia White Birch
Betula nana Arctic Dwarf Birch
Betula pumila Bog Birch
Betula alnoides Indian Birch
Betula alleghaniensis Yellow Birch
Betula schmidtii
Betula ermanii Russian Rock Birch
Betula papyrifera Canoe Birch
Betula nigra River Birch
