Downy Birch (Betula pubescens)
The Downy Birch tree (Betula pubescens) is a fast growing tree that can reach heights of 20m (65ft). In their early years, Downy Birch trees may grow up to one metre a year.
Useful info about Downy Birch trees
| Latin Name | Betula pubescens |
| Type | Deciduous (loses its leaves in winter) |
| Height | Can grow up to 20 metres (65 feet) |
| Spread | The branches can spread out to 5 - 10 metres (15 - 35 feet) |
| Soil Types Preferred | Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand |
| Locations Suitable | Farmland, Gardens, Parks, Patios |
| Flowers | Yellow-brown catkins in early spring |
| Fruit | - |
| Celtic Tree Month | December 24 - January 20 |
Similar Species
Description
The young shoots of the Downy Birch tree are velvety with soft white hairs. Their bark is first red-brown, but becomes a smooth grey-white without the black diamonds seen on silver birch.
Birch may begin to produce seed when six or seven years old. Male catkins shed pollen in April. The female flowers (borne on the same tree) develop into bracts, each bearing dozens of winged seed. These ripen in September and October.
Downy Birch trees are found chiefly on acid soils and prefers damp sites, such as fens, bogs, by lakes, and in areas of high rainfall or impeded drainage. They produce seed abundantly and are able to colonise open ground with quick growing, light demanding seedlings.
It is often the dominant vegetation until taller growing trees overtop it they grow well in poorly drained areas where other birch may not thrive.
Uses
The sap from Downy Birch trees can be harvested to make wine.
Its bark is used for tanning certain kinds of leather although the most familiar use of birch is for making traditional broomsticks.
It is important to the timber industry, not directly for timber, but as a nurse crop to young timber trees.
DISCLAIMER
Any uses for trees or tree extracts, whether edible or medicinal, have not been tried or tested by EFORESTS.
Please take caution and seek proper advice before attempting any recipes or medicinal extracts from any of the trees listed on our site.
Culture and Symbolism
Downy Birch trees are believed to represent renewal, purification, love and fertility.
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