Silver Birch
Betula pendula · Deciduous Broadleaf Hardwood
Plant Family
Betulaceae
Tree Category
Ornamental Shade Tree
Variety / Cultivar
Not specified; exhibits typical 'pendula' characteristics with weeping branchlets.
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 2-7; highly cold-tolerant but struggles in the humid heat of the southern US.
About This Tree
A medium-sized deciduous tree characterized by an upright main trunk with graceful, weeping outer branchlets. The crown starts slender and becomes more rounded and open with age. Known for its distinctive white bark with contrasting black fissures.
Leaf Characteristics
Simple, alternate, triangular-ovate (diamond-shaped) with doubly serrated margins. Leaves are 1-3 inches long, bright green in summer, turning golden yellow in autumn.
Bark Characteristics
Smooth, silvery-white on young branches and upper trunk. As the tree matures, the base and lower trunk develop deep, rugged, diamond-shaped black fissures and rougher texture.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to Europe and parts of Asia; widely naturalized in North America and temperate regions.
Growing Season
Leafs out in early spring with catkins (flowers) appearing before foliage; produces seeds in late summer; enters dormancy in late autumn after yellow fall color.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full sun to partial shade. Prefers consistently moist, well-drained soil; has moderate drought tolerance once established but can be stressed by high heat and dryness.
Mature Size
Reaches 30-50 feet in height with a spread of 15-25 feet. Fast-growing but relatively short-lived (usually 30-50 years in urban settings).
Special Characteristics
Highly valued for ornamental white bark and graceful weeping habit. Susceptible to Bronze Birch Borer in warmer climates. Historically used for timber, sap, and traditional crafts.
Wildlife & Ecology
Provides food for many species of birds (seeds and catkins) and serves as a host for numerous moths and insects. Offers light canopy shade that allows for understory growth.