Betula utilis Betula utilis

Betulaceae

Betula utilis Betula utilis

Betula utilis is a large tree with a broad oval crown up to about 20 m. The crown is more regularly shaped than in many other birches. The young twigs are distinctly hairy and glanded. The bark of older branches and trunk is peeling off in small to large strips, often sticking to the branches and trunk for a long time. The colour is highly variable, ranging from grey-white to deep red-brown. The dark green leaves turn yellow in autumn. Flowering with catkins can be striking, the fruits are not.
B. utilis is a variable species, mainly in terms of bark colour. Generally, the forms with white or grey bark originate from more western areas (western Himalayas, Kashmir), while the forms with (red) brown bark are native to the eastern Himalayas and western China. The well-known variety jacquemontii is thus the western variety. Stately tree that combines brilliant bark with healthy dark green leaves. Can grow in semi-open paving, making it suitable for use in wide avenues and streets.
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
15 – 20 m
Width
6-8m
Crown
oval, half-open crown
Bark and branches
branches brown, densely hairy and with many glands, bark greyish white to reddish brown, peeling
Leaf
oval to ovate, 5-12 cm long, dark green, autumn color yellow
Autumn colour
yellow
Flowers
catkins, yellow-green, ♀ ± 2 cm, ♂ 10-12 cm, March-April
Fruits
fruiting catkins 2.5-3.5 cm
Spines/thorns
None
Toxicity
usually not toxic to people, (large) pets and livestock
Soil type
clayed soil, loamy soil, sandy soil, peaty soil, nutrient-poor soil, acid soil, all soil types
Paving
tolerates partial paving
Winter hardiness zone
6 (-23,3 to -17,8 °C)
Wind resistance
good
Other resistances
resistant to frost (WH 1 - 6), can withstand wind
Fauna tree
valuable for butterflies
Application
avenues and broad streets
Shape
clearstem tree, feathered tree, multi-stem treem
Clear stem tree feathered tree Multi-stem tree acid soil clay soil loamy soil nutrient-poor soil peaty soil sandy soil tolerates partial paving light-loving resistant to frost (WH 1 - 6) can withstand wind oval 1st size , taller than 12 metres half-open crown green yellowgreen early sprout average growing all species Attractive autumn colour valuable for butterflies non-toxic (usually)
Frequently asked questions
Betula utilis

Betula utilis can eventually reach a height of 15 – 20 m, depending on the site and climate conditions.

Betula utilis is average growing and can eventually reach a height of 15 – 20 m, depending on the site and climate conditions.

The leaves of Betula utilis turn yellow in autumn.

The right time to plant Betula utilis is during the dormancy period. In Western Europe, Betula utilis 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 utilis blooms in march, 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.