Betula papyrifera Paper birch, Canoe birch, White birch

Betulaceae

Betula papyrifera Paper birch, Canoe birch, White birch

Beautiful birch with a loose crown and slightly pendent branches. Originally growing in the northern parts of the United States and in Canada. Here the tree is an important producer of veneers and pulp. In these regions it attains a height of 30 m and therefore it is considered to belong to the highest of the birches. Can grow into a multiple-stemmed tree with wide spreading branches that are slightly pendent. Often has a variable crown. Width circa 12 m. The bark is bright white and peels in paper-thin plates. Under the plates the bark is darker. Twigs are shiny red brown and display many warty lenticels. The leaf is dull green and the underside is a lighter green. The leaf margin is coarsely toothed. Prefers slightly moist soil, dry soil gives much dead wood. Shallow rooting.
Our trees can only be planted when they don't have any leaves. Due to the this we will start delivering again from November 2025.
Availability
Specifications
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Height
18 - 20 (30) m, fast growing
Width
10-15m
Crown
wide, pyramidal to round, half-open crown
Bark and branches
trunk bright white, later peeling in paper-thin plates
Leaf
oval to ovoid, mat green, 5 - 12 cm
Autumn colour
yellow
Flowers
catkins, ♀ 5 - 7 cm, ♂ 6 - 8 cm, green yellow, April
Fruits
yellow brown fruiting catkins, 3 - 7 cm long
Spines/thorns
None
Toxicity
usually not toxic to people, (large) pets and livestock
Soil type
sandy, preferably slightly moist
Paving
tolerates no paving
Winter hardiness zone
3 (-40,0 to -24,5 °C)
Wind resistance
very good
Other resistances
resistant to frost (WH 1 - 6), can withstand wind
Fauna tree
valuable for butterflies
Application
avenues and broad streets, tree containers, roof gardens
Shape
clearstem tree, multi-stem treem
Origin
northern North America, Canada, Alaska
Clear stem tree Multi-stem tree acid soil calcareous soil loamy soil peaty soil sandy soil tolerates no paving light-loving resistant to frost (WH 1 - 6) can withstand wind 1st size , taller than 12 metres half-open crown green yellowgreen early sprout fast growing all species Attractive autumn colour valuable for butterflies non-toxic (usually)
Possibly of interest
Frequently asked questions
Betula papyrifera

Betula papyrifera can eventually reach a height of 18 - 20 (30) m, fast growing, depending on the site and climate conditions.

Betula papyrifera is fast growing and can eventually reach a height of 18 - 20 (30) m, fast growing, depending on the site and climate conditions.

The leaves of Betula papyrifera turn yellow in autumn.

The right time to plant Betula papyrifera is during the dormancy period. In Western Europe, Betula papyrifera with root balls can generally be planted from mid-November to late April, although this depends strongly on the climatic conditions and the species of tree.

Betula papyrifera blooms in april.
General

Yes, we deliver to the UK. Delivery costs depend on the region and the total order value. Below, you’ll find all the details.

Delivery charges for private customers are calculated based on your region and are visible during the checkout process. We also offer discounts based on the total value of your order:

  • Orders over £1,000: Receive a 50% discount on delivery costs.
  • Orders over £2,000: Delivery is completely free.

Yes, for trees with a size of 50-60 cm girth or larger, additional delivery charges apply due to the need for specialised transport. These costs will be calculated separately and shared with you after your order is placed. We will contact you to discuss the transport options and costs.

Once you add items to your basket and proceed to the checkout, the system will calculate the delivery charges for your region. If your order qualifies for any discounts, they will automatically be applied.

For any questions or specific delivery requests, feel free to contact our customer service team. We’re happy to help arrange the best delivery solution for your order.