A graceful deciduous tree with striking white papery bark, slender weeping branchlets and fluttering leaves that turn soft yellow in autumn. Lovely planted in groves.
At a glance
- Plant type: Tree
- Mature size: 12 m H × 5 m W
- Aspect: full sun and part shade or morning sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Silver Birch
Betula pendula is a fast-growing tree in the Betulaceae family. It reaches around 12 m tall and 5 m wide at maturity, with deciduous and rich in autumn colour foliage.
Where to grow Silver Birch
Silver Birch suits cool-temperate and warm-temperate climates and grows best in full sun and part shade or morning sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters.
Soil & planting
Silver Birch does best in loamy, sandy and free-draining soil. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in.
Watering & feeding
Silver Birch does best with regular, moderate watering. Feed as new growth begins, following the rate on a balanced garden fertiliser. Keep a newly planted specimen evenly watered through its first season; established plants can then follow the water needs above.
Pruning & care
Tip-prune Silver Birch in spring to maintain a dense, shapely habit. For most gardens, maintenance is low maintenance.
Using Silver Birch in the garden
Silver Birch earns its place for a feature or specimen planting and a shade tree.
Companion planting & design
Silver Birch sits most comfortably beside plants adapted to regular, moderate watering and cool-temperate climate. A small cluster gives stronger visual impact than isolated plants scattered through the garden.
Good to know
It is thornless and easy to handle.
Buying Silver Birch
Plant Sale lists Silver Birch as advanced specimens and bare-root stock. Availability is confirmed when you request a quote; use the panel above to register interest.
