No images found for this plant ID: 5560.
Ensure images are uploaded to the Media Library and tagged with "5560" in the "plant_image_tag" taxonomy.
downy birch
Scientific Name: Betula pubescens var. pubescens
Family: Betulaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth: Tree
Duration: Perennial
Other Names:
Downy Birch: A Comprehensive Guide
The Downy Birch, scientifically known as Betula pubescens, is a common broadleaf tree with several other common names, including Moor Birch, White Birch, European White Birch, and Hairy Birch.
Considerations for Pets
- The text mentions that birch bark has traditionally been used for writing. While not directly related to toxicity, it's worth considering that pets might be tempted to chew on fallen bark, especially if accessible in a garden.
Considerations for Children
- The text mentions that the leaves of the downy birch have toothed edges, and in winter, the tree produces grey catkins. Children might be interested in collecting these parts of the plant.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Betula pubescens
- Family: Betulaceae (Birch Family)
- Synonyms:
- Betula alba var. pubescens
- Betula alba subsp. pubescens
- Subspecies: Downy Birch or White Birch (ssp. pubescens)
Distribution and Habitat
- Native to the UK, northern Europe, and northern Asia.
- Common in Scotland, where it is a vital part of the Caledonian Forest.
- Found on heathland, moorland, and mountainsides, as well as on damp soils.
- Thrives at high altitude.
Ecological Role
- Downy Birch is a pioneer tree, one of the first to colonize new or cleared land.
Morphological Characteristics
- A medium-sized tree, sometimes shrubby, reaching an estimated height of 17-22 meters.
- Has a narrow, conical shape with more upright, ascending branches than the pendulous Silver Birch (Betula pendula).
- Young shoots are downy.
- Bark is distinctive grey-white.
- Leaves are duller green than Silver Birch, with coarsely and mainly singly toothed margins. The leaves have a shorter leaf-stalk, 7-15 mm in length.
- Produces grey catkins in winter which turn yellow and open up to shed in the spring.
Quirky Facts
- The name "birch" is believed to derive from the Sanskrit "bhurga," meaning "a tree whose bark is used for writing upon."
Interactions with Other Organisms
- Fly agaric mushrooms have a special relationship with downy birch trees.
Further Information
- Nature's Calendar: Offers a FREE silver birch fact sheet (though focusing on Silver Birch, it may provide context).
- ARKive: Provides photos and facts about Silver Birch (Betula pendula), which can be useful for comparison.