Betula pubescens
TAXONOMY
FamilyBetulaceae
GenusBetula
Zone2
LEARN MORE
Plants of the World OnlineABOUT
Betula pubescens, commonly known as Downy Birch, is a deciduous tree native to northern Europe and parts of Asia. It is part of the Betulaceae family and the Betula genus. This tree thrives in temperate climates and is known for its white bark and delicate, serrated leaves. It undergoes a dormancy period during the winter months.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Besen-Birke
Common White Birch
Downy Birch
Flaum-Birke
Moor-Birke
Silver Birch
Betula alba f. hornemannii
Betula alba subsp. pubescens
Betula alba var. friesii
Betula alba var. hornemannii
Betula alba var. lupulina
Betula alba var. ovata
Betula alba var. pubescens
Betula alba var. vulgaris
Betula concinna
Betula friesii
Betula friesii var. oxyodontia
Betula friesii var. subalpina
Betula laciniata
Betula lucida
Betula odorata var. alpigena
Betula pubescens f. pendula
Betula pubescens subsp. callosa
Betula pubescens subsp. concinna
Betula pubescens subsp. nigricans
Betula pubescens subsp. ovalifolia
Betula pubescens subsp. subarctica
Betula pubescens subsp. suecica
Betula pubescens var. cryptocarpa
Betula pubescens var. friesii
Betula pubescens var. glabra
Betula pubescens var. lucida
Betula pubescens var. media
Betula pubescens var. megalocarpa
Betula pubescens var. nigricans
Betula pubescens var. oblongifolia
Betula pubescens var. ovalifolia
Betula pubescens var. palmiformis
Betula pubescens var. rustica
Betula pubescens var. sibakademica
Betula pubescens var. silvatica
Betula pubescens var. silvestris
Betula pubescens var. subaequalis
Betula pubescens var. subalpina
Betula pubescens var. vestita
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterWet
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature15° C
Humidity60%
Dormancy4 Months
pH5.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
WANT MORE TIPS?
DETAILS
Care Instructions
Downy Birch trees prefer moderate temperatures and should be planted in areas where they can receive direct bright light for several hours a day. They thrive in environments with moderate humidity and should be watered regularly to keep the soil evenly moist. These trees are relatively hardy and can tolerate a range of conditions but prefer temperate climates.Soil
Betula pubescens prefers loamy soil that is well-draining yet retains some moisture. The soil should be slightly acidic to neutral in pH. Ensure the planting site has good drainage to prevent waterlogging, which can harm the tree.Fertilizer
Fertilize Downy Birch trees with a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 N-P-K formulation, during the growing season. Apply the fertilizer in early spring and again in mid-summer to support healthy growth.Repotting
As a tree, Betula pubescens is not typically repotted. Instead, ensure it is planted in a suitable location where it has enough space to grow and develop its root system.Propagation
Downy Birch can be propagated through seeds or cuttings. Collect seeds in the fall and sow them in a cold frame. Alternatively, take softwood cuttings in early summer and root them in a moist, well-draining medium.Pruning
Prune Betula pubescens in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches, and thin out crowded areas to improve air circulation and light penetration.Toxicity
Betula pubescens is not known to be toxic to pets or humans. However, as with all plants, it is best to prevent pets and children from ingesting any part of the tree.Additional
Downy Birch trees are known for their attractive white bark, which can add visual interest to landscapes. They are also relatively fast-growing and can be used for reforestation and erosion control projects.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
Make Every Plant Smart
Plant Monitor
STAYS IN YOUR PLANT
Accurately measures the core metrics of your plant – soil moisture, light, temperature and humidity - as well as compound metrics such as Vapor Pressure Deficit (VPD) and Growing Degree Days (GDD).
Shop Now
