Swamp Birch Betula alleghaniensis

Betula is Latin for birch and describes a genus of about 60 species of deciduous trees and shrubs found in many gardens and landscapes throughout the northern hemisphere. Betula alleghaniensis, or Yellow Birch is a medium to large deciduous tree with a single trunk of up to 3 feet 6 inches and an overall height that can reach 70 to 80 feet tall. It is the largest species of birch in North America. In the open, the crown is large and wide, while in dense forested areas the crown is small and irregular. Pyramidal and dense when young, it develops a rounded to irregular crown when mature. It can be found naturally in forests at medium to high elevations, usually above 3000 feet, and is common to the mountains of North Carolina. Tiny monoecious (male and female) flowers appear in early spring in separate catkins on the same tree. Male catkins are narrowly cylindrical and yellowish purple. The female catkins are upright and greenish. Female flowers are followed by drooping cone-like fruits containing numerous small winged seeds that typically mature in late summer.

Yellow Birches are best grown in moist, acidic, sandy or rocky, well-drained loams in full sun to part shade. Best foliage color occurs in full sun. Unlike most birches, Yellow Birch are slow-growing and typically live for about 150 years; however, the longevity of some trees can extend to 300 years or more. Hot dry weather during the summer can impair the health of this tree and it is especially sensitive to heat, drought, and soil compaction. The plant does best in cool climates. Keep the tree consistently moist and consider using soaker hoses and bark mulches to keep the root zones cool and moist. It needs little pruning, but if necessary, you can prune during the dormant season. Do not prune in winter or spring when the sap is running because it will bleed.

Diseases, Insects, and Other Plant Problems:

Birches can become stressed by summer heat and humidity. It is not recommended for planting south of USDA Zone 7. This variety of birch is said to be less susceptible to the bronze birch borer or leaf miner than other birches. Stem canker, aphids and birch skeletonizer may occur. Watch for leaf spot problems. Deer will browse the twigs of young plants.