SafePlants

European White Birch (Betula pendula)

The European white birch, scientifically known as Betula pendula, is a captivating tree admired for its striking white bark and graceful, drooping branches. It is a popular choice for landscaping due to its aesthetic appeal and relatively fast growth.

Common Names

• European white birch
• Silver birch
• Common birch
• Weeping birch
• Warty birch

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Betula pendula
• Family: Betulaceae (Birch Family)
• Synonyms: Betula alba var. pendula, Betula verrucosa
• Subspecies: Some sources suggest dividing it into three subspecies, with ssp. pendula being found in Europe.

Considerations for Pets

• The text mentions that the European white birch has small, saw-toothed leaves.

Considerations for Children

• The text mentions that the European white birch has small, saw-toothed leaves.

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to Europe and parts of Northern Asia.
• Most common in high-altitude environments.
• Introduced to North America.

Ecological Role

• Considered invasive in some states in the USA.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Deciduous hardwood tree with thin leaves.
• Grows up to 50 feet tall, and even up to 100 feet in native areas.
• Slender, drooping branches.
• Small, glossy-green, saw-toothed leaves that turn yellow in the fall.
• Distinctive white bark that can be non-peeling or peeling, and spotted with black. Turns black with age.
• Pyramidal shape when young, becoming rounded with age.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Susceptible to borer infestations. Paper birch is more resistant.
• Subject to herbivory by mountain hares.

Quirky Facts

• The European white birch is sometimes erroneously called B. alba.
• The bark of the European white birch is described as having an exfoliating quality and being "spotted with black."

Further Information

• Virginia Cooperative Extension: https://ext.vt.edu/