Betula papyrifera Paper birch (Betulaceae) Deciduous tree

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Betula papyrifera
Paper birch
Deciduous tree
(1 Page of 5)

The Betula papyrifera plant species is found in Northern N. America to Greenland. It is a member of the Betulaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Paper birch. Some home gardeners know the variety as B. papygracea

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Betula papyrifera
Common Name:  Paper birch
Family:  Betulaceae
Author:  Marshall.

Known Hazards:  None known

Mature Height:  20   Mature Width:  5

Habitat:  Woods, usually on slopes, edges of ponds, streams and swamps etc[43, 82]. Found in a wide range of soil conditions, but the best specimens are found in well-drained sandy-loam soils[229].

Cultivation Notes: Succeeds in a well-drained loamy soil in a sunny position[11, 200]. Tolerates most soils including poor soils and heavy clays[200]. Fairly wind tolerant[200]. This species is very unhappy on our windy site in Cornwall[K]. A fast-growing but short-lived species[200]. It is often a pioneer species of areas ravaged by fire[229]. The trunk and branches are easily killed by fire, though the tree usually regenerates from the roots[229]. It hybridizes freely with other members of this genus[50]. This species was an exceedingly important tree for the Indians - they utilized it for a very wide range of applications and it was a central item in their economy[226]. A good plant to grow near the compost heap, aiding the fermentation process[20]. Trees are notably susceptible to honey fungus[200].

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Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'.
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