Betula alba, White Birch, Downy Birch, Moor Birch, European White Birch, Hairy Birch

Betula pubescens, also commonly known as the Downy Birch, is the lesser-known white-barked Birch native to both the UK and Europe.

Like all Birches, this tree has attractive bark that is dull white and peels with age. It is distinguishable from Betula pendula in that it is duller in colour and does not exhibit dark diamond-shaped cracks on the bark.

As the common name suggests, the Downy Birch has downy shoots and small ovate leaves with a serrated edge. Catkins are produced early in the spring before the leaves emerge.

Betula pubescens prefers damper soil than Betula pendula and is therefore more generally found towards the West of the UK. However, it is a tough contender and will tolerate most soil conditions.

As a mature tree, this specimen is more compact than Betula pendula and forms a more pyramidal shape than its relative.

It is a great choice for damper parklands and estates and is useful in creating copses with a naturalised look.

Mature height: 17-22m

Common names

Betula alba, White Birch, Downy Birch, Moor Birch, European White Birch, Hairy Birch

Height of tree

17-22m

Soil type

Well drained, Wet

Shape

Multi-stemmed

Foliage Colour

Green

Information Flags

Bark interest, Native

Looks good in

Summer

Location

Garden, Parkland