Silver birch
Betula pendula 路 Betulaceae 路 also Warty birch
A graceful pioneer tree with white peeling bark and fine drooping twigs, reaching up to 30 m but usually smaller in gardens. It casts light shade, colours yellow in autumn and supports over 300 insect species plus seed-eating finches. Quick to establish on heaths, brownfield land and new woodland, and small enough for many gardens.
Broadleaf, drops leavesFast growingFull sunModerate water
Where it stands
Care
Plant in autumn or winter; water weekly in the first dry summer because birch roots are shallow. Prune only in late summer, as cuts bleed heavily in spring. Planted birch can suffer birch dieback (Marssonina and Anisogramma fungi); naturally regenerated trees are less affected. Short-lived compared with oak.
Benefits
WildlifeBirdsFall colorFast canopyFits small spacesPollinators
Good for
Small yardparksReforestationYard shade