Paper Birch
(White Birch, Canoe Birch)
Betula Papyrifera
An abundant, native tree across all of Canada north to the tree line. Uniquely smooth, white, peeling bark makes this an interesting ornamental tree. Seeds are dispersed gradually through winter providing a steady supply of food for birds and small mammals. Wind pollinated male and female flowers are on separate parts of the same tree. A pioneer species that reseeds prolifically to regenerate disturbed sites. Prune in late spring or fall as tree will bleed sap if pruned in late winter or early Spring. Thrives better in more northerly climates with cooler summers. The peeling bark was once used to make canoes.
Additional information
| Foliage | Deciduous |
|---|---|
| Locale | Native to New Brunswick, Native to North America |
| Height | Large (60-100ft) |
| Width | Moderate |
| Form | Oval |
| Growth Rate | Fast |
| Longevity | Long (over 100 years) |
| Hardiness Zones * | 2, 3, 4, 5 |
| Sun Exposure | Full Sun (over 6 hrs) |
| Soil Preferences * | Moist, Slightly Acidic, Well Draining |
| Soil Tolerances | Clay, Slightly Alkaline |
| Other Tolerances | Occasional Flooding, Road Salt |
| Ornamental Interest | Bark |
| Wildlife Value | Birds (fruits/seeds), Butterflies (flowers), Butterfly Larvae (leaves), Small Mammals (fruits/seeds) |
| Human Value | Carpentry (wood), Fuel (wood) |
| Seed Collection | Personally in NB |
| Planting Considerations | Can Reseed Aggressively, Casts Light Shade, Intolerant of Full Shade, Intolerant of Soil Compaction, Intolerant of Urban Pollution, Shallow Roots |
