Betula albosinensis var. septentrionalis (Chinese Red Birch)

Betula albosinensis var. septentrionalis is an exquisite Chinese red birch with a most attractive peeling bark, a lovely mix of coppery-pink and cinnamon-brown with translucent golden edges. The effect is most spectacular when backlit by the setting sun. The oval leaves emerge emerald green in spring and mature to unusual sea green in summer before turning a beautiful, pale yellow in fall. In spring, tiny yellowish-brown male flowers appear in slender catkins. Vigorous, this medium-sized deciduous tree has an open, conical habit. Provide plenty of space to enjoy the beautiful trunk and the graceful and delicate branching.

The birch family, Betulaceae, includes well-known birch trees such as River Birch, Paper Birch, Yellow Birch, and Silver Birch, all prized for their attractive bark, graceful form, and adaptability to various landscapes.

• Grows up to 30-50 ft. tall (9-15 m) and 40 ft. wide (12 m).
• A full sun or part shade lover, this plant is easily grown in medium to wet, well-drained soils. Tolerates a wide range of soils. Unlike other birches, the Chinese red birch is drought-tolerant.
• Perfect as a specimen plant or in borders, cottage gardens, city gardens, and foundation plantings.
• Low maintenance, this plant needs little pruning. If pruning is necessary, prune during the dormant season and avoid pruning in spring when the sap is running.
• May be affected by sawflies, aphids, rust, and leaf spot.
• Propagate by softwood cuttings or grafting