Betula utilis (Himalayan Birch)

Betula utilis or albosinensis is an exquisite birch recognizable for its distinctive coppery to orange-red bark, which peels off in thin sheets to reveal a fresh cream-pink surface beneath. This happens on both the trunk and branches. The glossy oval leaves emerge emerald green in spring and turn a beautiful golden yellow in fall before being shed. In spring, tiny male and female flowers appear in long catkins. Vigorous, this deciduous tree captures the attention of those who encounter it.

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 40-70 ft. tall (12-21 m) and 25 ft. wide (8 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.
• 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
• Native to Western China