Betula pendula Alba

Common name: Silver Birch

Description: Betula pendula, commonly known as Silver Birch, is a graceful, deciduous tree native to Europe and parts of Asia. It is characterized by its slender trunk with distinctive white, peeling bark and pendulous branches. The leaves are diamond-shaped with serrated edges, turning a vibrant yellow in autumn before shedding. In early spring, both male and female catkins appear, with male catkins being yellow-brown and female catkins greenish, leading to small, winged seeds dispersed by the wind. Silver Birch thrives in full sun and is adaptable to various soil types, preferring well-drained, sandy soils. It is tolerant of urban pollution and is often used ornamentally in parks and gardens. In Melbourne's climate, it performs well, providing year-round interest with its striking bark and seasonal foliage changes. 

Form:

• Tree - Medium

Mature size:

• Height: 15–25 metres
• Width: 5–10 metres

Aspect:

• Full Sun

Flowering:

• Flowers in Early Spring

Flower colour:

• Male catkins: Yellow-brown
• Female catkins: Greenish

Key attributes:

• Suitable for Urban Planting
• Tolerant of Pollution
• Attractive Bark
• Autumn Foliage Interest

Toxicity: No known toxicity to humans or animals.

Companion plants:

• Heathers (Calluna vulgaris)
• Bluebells (Hyacinthoides non-scripta)
• Ferns (Dryopteris species)
• Wood Anemone (Anemone nemorosa)
• Foxgloves (Digitalis purpurea)