Also known as Eastern Paper Birch · Hearleaf Birch · Heart-Leaf Birch
Heartleaf paper birch (Betula cordifolia) is a medium to large deciduous tree known for its striking white, peeling bark and heart-shaped leaves. It thrives in cool, mois
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun to Partial Shade
75% intensity
Thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. More sun generally leads to better foliage color and form.
Moderate to High
75% intensity
Prefers consistently moist soil, especially during establishment and dry spells. Avoid waterlogged conditions.
Well-drained, moist soils
50% intensity
Cold Hardy
25% intensity
Well-suited to temperate climates with cold winters. Protect young trees from extreme heat and drought.
Low
25% intensity
Benefits from a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Avoid over-fertilizing.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Heartleaf paper birch prefers consistently moist soil, especially when young. Water deeply during dry periods to maintain soil hydration. Avoid waterlogged conditions, as this can lead to root rot.
Check the soil moisture regularly by feeling a few inches down.
Prune to remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches. The best time for structural pruning is during the dormant season (late winter to early spring) before sap flow begins.
Avoid pruning during the active sap flow period to prevent excessive bleeding.
Propagation is typically done by seed, which requires stratification. Softwood or semi-hardwood cuttings can also be taken in summer and treated with rooting hormone.
Ensure cuttings are kept in a humid environment until roots form.
Repotting is generally not necessary for established trees grown in the ground. For container-grown specimens, repot every 2-3 years in early spring.
Use a well-draining potting mix and trim back circling roots to encourage healthier growth.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Heartleaf Paper Birch (Betula cordifolia)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fagales |
| Family | Betulaceae |
| Genus | Betula |
| Species | Betula cordifolia |
Similar in genus Betula
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
