Betula maximowicziana, commonly known as Monarch Birch, is a deciduous tree native to cool temperate forests in Japan and the Kuril Islands. It can grow to a height of 30-100 feet (9-30 meters) and a width of 15-40 feet (5-12 meters). Monarch Birch is distinguished by its striking white bark that peels in large sheets, and its foliage turns a vibrant yellow in the fall. The tree produces catkins in the spring, which are not particularly showy but are of ecological importance.

Monarch Birch is valued for its ornamental bark, which adds visual interest to landscapes throughout the year. It is suitable for parks and large gardens, and its adaptability to a range of soil types, including acidic, neutral, and alkaline, makes it versatile in cultivation. While it prefers full sun or part shade, it also requires medium amounts of water and well-drained soil to thrive. It is less commonly used in urban settings due to its size and the variability in its growth habit, which can make it difficult to manage in smaller spaces.CC BY-SA 4.0