Birch Tree Service

betula papyrifera

A medium size tree 40’X25’ with an elliptical shape growing at a medium rate and liking high moisture in a cool soil. Yellow in fall.. White flaky bark is chalky and exfoliates with horizontal black lines and eyes common. Trunk typically remains golden brown for the first ten years or so of life. Fall and winter watering very important.

Environmental

Susceptible to sunscald and leaf scorch. Avoid planting with direct exposure to the south and west sides. Watch for girdling roots at planting and root prune if necessary.

Diseases

Diseases are rare along the Front Range.

Pests

Bronze Birch Borer is a problem and should be treated preventively in the spring. Leaf miner is also an issue with this species but can be treated preventively and avoided.

Cultivars

Betula pendula ‘Gracilis’ or Cutleaf weeping birch is a more pollutant tolerant variety. Much more susceptible to Bronze Birch Borer and leaf miner. Bark does not exfoliate. Others also available.

History and Use

Can be tapped to make syrup from the sap, however the sap contains about 1/3 the concentration of sugar of that of the Sugar Maple. This is only done in Alaska and on a limited scale. The fibers from the wood can be used in paper making. The bark is an excellent fuel source for burning.