Betula utilis var. jacquemontii ‘Grayswood Ghost’ (Himalayan Birch)

Award-winning Betula utilis var. jacquemontii ‘Grayswood Ghost’ features one of the whitest bark of all birches. Luminescent, its “ghostly white,” smooth bark contrasts nicely with its dense summer canopy of large, very glossy, rich green leaves, 5 in. long (12 cm). The foliage often turns bright yellow in fall before shedding for the winter. In early spring, tiny yellowish-brown male flowers appear in conspicuous catkins. Vigorous, this medium-sized deciduous tree has a conical crown and is best grown as a specimen, where its stark white bark can be admired. The white bark develops fully when the tree is around 8 years old.

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.

• Recipient of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society for its outstanding qualities
• Grows up to 30-50 ft. tall (9-15 m) and 33 ft. wide (10 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