Asian White Birch

(Betula platyphylla)

Asian White Birch (Betula platyphylla)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Betula platyphylla, commonly known as Asian White Birch, is a deciduous tree that is native to Northeast Asia. It typically grows to a height of 30-40 feet (9-12 meters) and a width of 15-25 feet (5-8 meters). This species is found in mixed forests, often on moist, well-drained soils along riverbanks and mountain slopes. The tree is characterized by its striking white bark, which peels in fine horizontal strips, and its ovate to broadly ovate leaves that turn yellow in the fall.

Asian White Birch is appreciated for its distinctive bark, which provides visual interest in the landscape throughout the year. It is used in ornamental plantings, as a focal point in gardens, and for naturalizing in larger landscapes. It is relatively easy to grow, requiring full sun to part shade, and prefers moist, well-drained soils. While it can tolerate a range of soil types, it does best in slightly acidic conditions. Gardeners should be aware that this birch can be susceptible to the bronze birch borer and birch leafminer, and it may require preventive care to maintain its health.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Tree
  • Height: 30-40 feet
  • Width: 15-25 feet
  • Growth Rate: Rapid
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium

Common Uses

Bank Stabilization, Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Low Maintenance, Rabbit Resistant

Natural Habitat

Mixed forests in Northeast Asia, often on moist, well-drained soils along riverbanks and mountain slopes

Other Names

Common Names: Manchurian Birch , Paper Birch , Resin Birch , Alaska Birch , Alaska Paper Birch , Japanese White Birch , Manchurisk Björk , Bai Hua , Shira-Kaba , Shira-Kanba

Scientific Names: Betula platyphylla , Betula platyphylla var. japonica , Betula neoalaskana , Betula pendula subsp. mandshurica , Betula mandshurica , Betula resinifera , Betula papyrifera var. humilis , Betula tauschii , Betula alaskana , Betula platyphylla var. kamtschatica

GBIF Accepted Name: Betula pendula subsp. mandshurica (Regel) Ashburner & McAll.