A widely grown ornamental tree, Betula pendula, commonly known as Silver Birch, is a fast-growing, medium-sized deciduous tree valued for its elegant form and distinctive white bark. Native to Europe and parts of Asia Minor, it is well suited to cool to temperate climates and is one of the most popular deciduous trees for Australian gardens.
Description
Typically reaching 8 – 12 metres in height, Silver Birch develops a narrow, upright habit with a light, open canopy. The fine branchlets droop gracefully at the tips, giving the tree its characteristic pendulous appearance. This airy structure allows filtered light through the canopy, making it ideal for use as a feature tree or for underplanting.
One of the key ornamental features is the bark. Young trees begin with a grey trunk, which gradually matures into the iconic bright white bark that stands out beautifully in the landscape. The foliage consists of small, serrated leaves that emerge bright green in spring and summer, before turning a soft yellow in autumn.
Silver Birch is commonly used as a feature tree in residential gardens, and is equally effective when planted in groups or as an avenue planting along driveways, where it creates a light, dappled shade and a strong visual statement.
Summary Information
- Height – 8 – 12 metres depending on variety, soil and climate.
- Spread – Around 5 – 6 metres across at maturity.
- Growth rate – Moderate to fast.
- Foliage – Bright green turning pale yellow in autumn.
- Flowers – Catkins in spring.
- Position – Full sun, with some afternoon shade in warmer regions.
- Soil – Moist, humus rich, well-drained soil.
Betula pendula Varieties
Betula pendula ‘Dalecarlica’
A cut-leaf form with finely divided, almost feathery foliage. Sometimes referred to as the Swedish Birch, it tends to lose its leaves earlier than other forms.
Betula pendula ‘Fastigiata’
A narrow, upright form with branches held close to the trunk, making it well suited to tight spaces and avenue planting.
Betula pendula ‘Purpurea’
Known as the Purple Birch, this variety features attractive purple-toned foliage, adding contrast to mixed plantings.
Betula pendula ‘Youngii’
A true weeping form, with long cascading branches that form a graceful umbrella shape. An excellent feature tree for smaller gardens or as a focal point.
Betula pendula ‘Moss White’
Selected for its particularly bright white bark, this variety develops a striking trunk as it matures, making it one of the most visually appealing forms available.
Care
Best suited to cool to temperate regions, Betula pendula performs best in deep, moist, humus-rich soils with good drainage. While reasonably hardy, it benefits from additional watering during extended dry periods, particularly through summer.
Apply a slow-release fertiliser in early spring and again in early summer to support healthy growth. Always water well before and after fertilising.
Pruning is minimal and generally limited to removing dead or damaged wood. If required, pruning is best carried out from late spring through to summer to minimise sap bleeding and reduce the risk of disease.
Plants are widely available from nurseries, ranging from young seedlings through to advanced specimens of 3 – 5 metres for instant landscape impact.
Where To Buy
55 McDougal Rd Neerim South Victoria 3831 PH: (03) 56281507
Advanced ornamental trees and garden designs and concept plans. Direct to your property combined with specialist knowledge and outstanding service.
www.blericktreefarm.com.au
1750 Westernport Rd Heath Hill VIC 3981
Australias largest grower of semi advanced native and deciduous trees. .9 - 2.6mts high. Supplying councils, developers and landscapers. Includes Acacia implexa, acacia melanoxlylon.
www.dream-time.com.au
"Propagation and Production of Native and Exotic Trees
with Natural Root Systems from 2 to 2,000 lts."
www.njrivett.com.au
Carey Gully, Adelaide Hills.
Family business selling a large range of deciduous trees in pots 1-4m high. Crepe myrtle specialist. Includes Ornamental pears & plums, Red maples, Japanese maples, Gingko, Cercis, Ash, Birch, Crab apples, Weeping cherries, Gleditsia, Liquidambar and more. Hedging plants, evergreen trees & fruit trees.
www.adelaidetreefarm.com.au
WINTER HILL TREE FARM Ph: 02 4878 9193 Fax: 02 4878 9109
NSW Southern Highlands
Retail & Wholesale. Advanced trees & hedging. Grown in pots for year-round planting. 45 litre - 1000 litre available. Great range. Great Quality. Delivery available.
www.winterhill.com.au