Paper birch

Betula papyrifera

Tree20×5 mzone 3–7full sun

Profile

Family: Betulaceae
Habit: Tree
Height: 20 m
Spread: 5 m
Growth: medium
Lifespan: 120 years
First yield: after 12 years
Hardiness: zone 3–7
Shade tolerance: full sun
Soil: Sand, Silt, Loam, Clay
Soil moisture: dry – very moist
pH: 5.6 – 7.6

Uses

Edible4 of 10

Medicinal2 of 10

Other uses1 of 10

Origin & habitat

Woodlands, mostly on slopes, at pond edges, streams and swamps etc. Occurring on a wide variety of soil conditions, although the best specimens are found in well-drained sandy loam soils.

⚠️ Hazards

Toxicity: slightly toxic

This is no substitute for expert identification. When in doubt, do not eat it.

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