Betula nana, commonly known as Dwarf Birch, is a monoecious deciduous shrub native to tundra and subarctic regions, including Greenland, Iceland, northern Europe, northern Asia, and northern North America. It is adapted to cold climates and typically grows up to 4 feet high. Dwarf Birch has a compact, rounded form with small, rounded, toothed leaves that turn yellow in the fall. The bark is distinctive with its non-peeling, reddish-copper color. It produces inconspicuous flowers in the form of catkins, which are followed by small winged seeds.

Dwarf Birch is valued for its hardiness in extreme northern climates and its ability to thrive in poor soil conditions. It is often used in restoration projects to stabilize soil and support local ecosystems. In cultivation, it requires wet but well-drained, acidic soils and can tolerate nutrient-poor conditions. It is found at altitudes up to 7218 feet and is a key species in tundra biodiversity, providing habitat and food for Arctic wildlife. Dwarf Birch is not commonly used in traditional gardens but can be a unique addition to rock gardens or used in mass plantings for erosion control. It prefers full sun to partial shade and is relatively low maintenance, though it may not be suitable for warmer climates.CC BY-SA 4.0