Yellow Birch
Betula
alleghaniensis
Height: 30-60'
Width: 30-50'
Hardiness Zone: 3
Exposure: sun or partial shade
Origin: Newfoundland to Manitoba and south to North Georgia and TennesseeDescription:
Yellow Birch is an oval to round-topped, low-branched tree when grown in the open. Woodland trees are usually narrow, oval-shaped. Dark green oval pointed leaves, 3-5” long, turn to yellow or golden in autumn. The reddish-brown bark peels off in large papery shreds revealing shiny copper-colored younger bark. The bark on older trunks is a ragged brownish-gray color. Yellow Birch is an important lumber tree used for flooring, furniture, and veneer. Bruised twigs give the weak smell of the wintergreen oil it contains.
Site and Cultural Requirements:
Yellow Birch is adapted to cool climates with moist well-drained soils. It is not tolerant of dry or compacted sites or reflected heat from nearby large buildings or streets. Landscape specimens are usually not long-lived.
Insect/Disease Issues:
May be infested with a number of insects or diseases, but not usually serious.
Cultivars:
None available
We thank the Landscape Plant Development Center and Minnesota Landscape Arboretum for the botanical information and photos.
Open 9:00 AM until Sunset
Closed Mondays, open holidays
Phone: (515)-992-4211
Email: info@thebrentonarboretum.org
