Michigan State University Extension
Ornamental Plants plus Version 3.0 - 00000214
11/12/99

Betula pendula--European Birch


Hardiness Zones: 2 to 6
Height: 45 ft Spread: 30 ft Form: oval
Type: deciduous tree
Annual Growth Rate: 12 to 18 inches

Comments: European Birch is graceful (Vis. 6) and ornamental
but is susceptible to fatal attacks of bronze birch borer
and disfiguring attacks of birch leaf miner. When grown,
plan to provide the necessary insect control. Lawn grasses
grow well in its light shade. A moist soil and a regular
fertilization program, plus, watering in dry weather are
suggested. Although popular because of its white (Vis. 5)
bark, the tree requires more care and spraying than other
ornamental trees.

Cultivars:
'Burgundy Wine' - Purple leaves contrast with white bark.
'Dalecarlica' - A weeping tree with bright, white
bark. The foliage (Vis. 2) is dark green and deeply
lobed.
'Fastigiata' - An upright, narrow tree that branches
near the ground.
'Laciniata' is reported to be identical or similar.
'Monle' (Purple Rain TM) - A selection with purple
foliage (Vis. 3) all season if grown in full sun. A
Monrovia Nursery introduction.
'Purpurea' - Dark purple leaves early in the season but
fading to green later in the season.
'Rockimon' - Rocky Mountain Splendor TM - A vigorous
hybrid between B. pendula and B. fontinalis that is
very cold hardy (Vis. 1).
'Trost Dwarf' - A bushy plant with highly dissected
leaves.
'Youngii' - A small tree (Vis. 4), 15 feet tall by 20
feet wide, suitable for small spaces. An irregular
shape and weeping habit provide interest to the
landscape.

Related Information.
Bronze Birch Borer
Birch Leaf Miner

References for Cultivars: J. Frank Schmidt and Son 1999,
Weston Nurseries 1999, Bailey Nurseries 1999, Princeton
Nurseries 1997, Monrovia Nursery Company 1997, Ray
Wiegand's Nursery 1999, Sheridan Nurseries 1999, Moller's
Nursery 1997, Iseli Nursery 1999, Gee Farms 1999, Willoway
Nurseries 1999, Carlton Plants 1999.


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