Zones 2-8
Full Sun to Part Shade
70 feet tall
Medium to Moist Site
Approximately 20 seeds per packet
Paper Birch (Betula papyrifera) also called White Birch, is ubiquitous across Canada. This cold hardy species has distinctive white papery bark that peels in layers, making it a beautiful ornamental or accent tree. White Birch also makes excellent firewood. Paper birch is frequently planted as an ornamental because of its graceful form and attractive bark.
Grows to heights of approximately 21 meters (70 feet) and diameters of 45 centimeters (18 inches), Paper Birch is a fast-growing, pioneer tree with a lifespan under normal conditions of 30- 50 years. The bark changes to the white colour at about 3 years old.
Sustainably wild collected from Ontario seed zone SE4 or 26
Growing Instructions:
Germination: Soak in water for 24 hours, then cold-stratify in a fridge for 3 months ensuring they stay moist.
After the cold stratification period they are then brought to 20-22C (68-72F) to germinate. Sow on soil surface. Keep in a bright location, out of direct sun, until germination begins. Germination is generally 30-90 days after the warming period, though some can take longer, and will germinate irregularly over a long period of time. Do not discard the planting tray, as patience is needed, and they are well worth the wait.