Betula papyrifera
Paper Birch
It does best on moist well drained sandy soil but is tolerant to most conditions.
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Description
The Paper Birch is also known as the Canoe Birch in its native North America.
It was introduced into the UK in 1750. Until it clears 20-25cm girth the bark is a brown / red and very distinguishable from other juvenile birch but after this point the bark starts to whiten markedly.
A pioneer species particularly quick to colonise areas devastated by fire.
The waterproof qualities of its bark made it an important tree for the Native Americans who used it for making canoes and wigwam covers as well as eating utensils.
It makes a medium to large tree with a conical habit and white papery bark the colour being carried high into the canopy. In the autumn the foliage turns an attractive yellow.
One of the most elegant of trees for parks.
It does best on moist well drained sandy soil but is tolerant to most conditions.
Mature height: 12-17m
Mature spread: 8-12m