Water
Paper Birch prefers consistently moist soil, especially when young. Water deeply and regularly during dry periods. Avoid waterlogged conditions, as this can lead to root rot.
Reduce watering frequency in fall as the plant enters dormancy.
Also known as Canoe Birch · Paper-Bark Birch · Silver Birch
Paper Birch (Betula papyrifera) is a fast-growing deciduous tree known for its striking white, peeling bark and graceful form. It thrives in cooler climates and adds bril
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun to Partial Shade
75% intensity
Thrives in full sun but tolerates light shade.
Consistent Moisture
50% intensity
Prefers moist but well-drained soil; avoid waterlogging.
Loam, Clay, Sandy, Acidic, Neutral
50% intensity
Cold Hardy
25% intensity
Tolerates a wide range of temperatures, including harsh winters; prefers cooler climates.
Moderate
50% intensity
Fertilize in early spring with a balanced fertilizer; avoid over-fertilization.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Paper Birch prefers consistently moist soil, especially when young. Water deeply and regularly during dry periods. Avoid waterlogged conditions, as this can lead to root rot.
Reduce watering frequency in fall as the plant enters dormancy.
Prune in late winter or early spring before sap begins to flow to minimize "bleeding. " Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Shape the tree for desired form and structure while it's young.
Avoid heavy pruning, as it can stress the tree.
Paper Birch can be propagated by seed, but germination can be challenging. Stratification is often required. Softwood cuttings taken in early summer can also be rooted, though success rates can be variable.
Grafting is another method for specific cultivars.
Repotting is generally not applicable for mature, in-ground Paper Birches. For young specimens grown in containers, repot in early spring every 2-3 years.
Use a well-draining potting mix and a slightly larger container to accommodate root growth.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Paper Birch (Betula papyrifera)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fagales |
| Family | Betulaceae |
| Genus | Betula |
| Species | Betula papyrifera |
Similar in genus Betula
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data