Home and Landscape
Birch
- Betula spp.
- Family Betulaceae (Birch family)
Plant Identification
Birch trees are all deciduous. Their size varies depending on species; B. pendula, for example grows between 30 and 40 feet.
Optimum conditions for growth
Betula spp. grow best in full sun with regular fertilizer and frequent irrigation. Given adequate water, they can grow in various climatic zones, depending on the species. Birch are relatively short-lived trees, especially in areas with hot, dry summers, where birches usually decline and die within about 20 years after planting. Birches are brittle and can be damaged by wind and ice.
