Betula Pendula 'Purpurea' (Purple Birch)

Introduced in the early 1870s, this slow growing and rare variety won the First Class Certificate in 1874.

One of the largest specimens I have seen happens to be in my next door neighbour’s garden in Leicestershire and has reached over 10 metres whilst retaining a slender habit.

Dark purple leaves emerge in spring soften to a dark green / purple by summer.

The bark is similar to that of Betula pendula and the habit is similarly repeated.

There have been attempts in America to enhance this type by introducing several other purple leaves clones onto the market but none have made the grade or lived up to the hype of nurseryman’s catalogue descriptions.

It will grow on most soils and is best suited for gardens and arboretums.

Mature height: 10-15m