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Water Birch

Betula Occidentalis

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Overview

Betula occidentalis, or Water Birch, is a multi-stemmed, deciduous tree thriving in USDA zones 3-7. Typically reaching 30 feet tall and spreading 20 feet wide, it features a rounded canopy with reddish-brown bark exfoliating in thin sheets. Prefers moist, well-drained soils and full to partial sun. Noted for yellow fall foliage, it's ideal for naturalized areas or alongside water features for erosion control and wildlife habitat. Hardy and adaptable.

Sun Full, HalfWater Extra in Summer, High, MediumZones 4–9Climate Temperate
Water Birch (Betula Occidentalis) — Typically reaching 30 feet tall and spreading 20 feet wide
Water Birch (Betula Occidentalis) — Typically reaching 30 feet tall and spreading 20 feet wideWater Birch (Betula Occidentalis) — it features a rounded canopy with reddish-brown bark exfoliating in thin sheetsWater Birch (Betula Occidentalis) — it's ideal for naturalized areas or alongside water features for erosion control and wildlife habitatWater Birch (Betula Occidentalis) — Noted for yellow fall foliageWater Birch (Betula Occidentalis) — Prefers moist, well-drained soils and full to partial sunWater Birch (Betula Occidentalis) — commonly referred to as the Water Birch+58

Culture

Sun
Full, Half
Water
Extra in Summer, High, Medium
USDA zones
4–9

Shape & size

Classification

Family
Betulaceae
Climate
Temperate

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Photos (65)

Water Birch (Betula Occidentalis) — Betula occidentalis, or Water Birch, is a multi-stemmed, deciduous tree thriving in USDA zones 3-7
Water Birch (Betula Occidentalis) — Typically reaching 30 feet tall and spreading 20 feet wide
Water Birch (Betula Occidentalis) — it features a rounded canopy with reddish-brown bark exfoliating in thin sheets
Water Birch (Betula Occidentalis) — it's ideal for naturalized areas or alongside water features for erosion control and wildlife habitat
Water Birch (Betula Occidentalis) — Noted for yellow fall foliage
Water Birch (Betula Occidentalis) — Prefers moist, well-drained soils and full to partial sun
Water Birch (Betula Occidentalis) — commonly referred to as the Water Birch
Water Birch (Betula Occidentalis) — is a versatile and adaptive deciduous tree that brings a naturalistic charm to any landscape
Water Birch (Betula Occidentalis) — indigenous to western North America
Water Birch (Betula Occidentalis) — indicating an affinity for well-hydrated environments.<br><br>The Water Birch boasts a moderate growth rate
Water Birch (Betula Occidentalis) — typically thrives along stream banks and moist soils
Water Birch (Betula Occidentalis) — reaching mature heights between 30 to 40 feet with a spread of 15 to 20 feet
Water Birch (Betula Occidentalis) — accented by reddish-brown bark that exquisitely peels in thin sheets
Water Birch (Betula Occidentalis) — shrubby form possesses a rugged allure
Water Birch (Betula Occidentalis) — requiring minimal pruning to maintain its shape and encourage strong structure
Water Birch (Betula Occidentalis) — The Water Birch is cold tolerant
Water Birch (Betula Occidentalis) — The leaves of the Water Birch are distinctly diamond-shaped
Water Birch (Betula Occidentalis) — the Water Birch offers ecological benefits
Water Birch (Betula Occidentalis) — and naturalized settings in the landscape
Water Birch (Betula Occidentalis) — serving as a habitat and food source for local wildlife
Water Birch (Betula Occidentalis) — It's an excellent candidate for riparian plantings
Water Birch (Betula Occidentalis) — including birds and butterflies
Water Birch (Betula Occidentalis) — Betula occidentalis, or Water Birch, is a multi-stemmed, deciduous tree thriving in USDA zones 3-7; prefers moist
Water Birch (Betula Occidentalis) — tree for full or half

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