In fall they turn golden yellow. The leaves of those two species are nearly identical. There are often shallow, horizontal fissures in the bark, as well as dark triangular patches where branches meet the trunk. Seeds are wind-dispersed. Many native birches provide food for birds and mammals. But a preference for white bark is no reason to ignore this plant entirely. With age, the bark develops shallow grooves, deep fissures and bosses. Gray Birch tree leaves are 2-3 inches long and grow in an elongated triangle shape. We are independently owned and the opinions expressed here are our own. Its bark is gray and smooth and sometimes has white blotches. Downy birch grows in the wild in Iceland, Western Europe, and all the way across Russia. It forms broad plates separated by even darker fissures. It is hard to go wrong when picking a birch tree. It seems that downy birch also acts as an anti-inflammatory, and as a way to treat fever. They are typically small to medium-sized trees and shrubs found in temperate zones in the Northern Hemisphere. The bases of European white birch leaves are blunt and the tips long and pointed. See more ideas about leaves, north georgia, flowers. This bark is a silvery gray color. Gray and paper birch are easily confused as both have white bark, and they often grow together in the same habitat. The leaves are a dark yellow-green with a matte surface. One of the few exceptions is European larch which loses its needles in winter. Furrowed : This bark is the most common type of bark out there, and this is what most people think of when you talk about tree bark. It often grows on north-facing slopes and near riverbeds. Downy birch survives in extremely cold climates. Often multi-stem, this medium to fast-growing tree lives both in the woods and in residential yards. This bark is a creamy white. For the most part, gray birch bark is a muted version of the paper birch’s striking white. But in that brief time, it is a beautiful native feature of the landscape. Birch trees belong to the genus Betula and are classified as part of the Betulaceae family of plants. Other than the bark, yellow birch looks a lot like black birch. An even larger number of birch species are prone to breaking under heavy weight due to their relatively weak multi-stem form. The Spruce / Letícia Almeida. Read on to learn about what makes each of these species useful and unique. Bark of mature trees is variable in color; can be bright white but often is slightly duller, more grayish, than other white-barked birches. This bark is a very dark brown. Because of this, it may be best to plant paper birch at a reasonable distance from a building. An error in identifying edible plants can be detrimental to your health and even deadly. This species has also been used to reclaim disturbed and degraded areas, such as mine spoils. The new growth of this cultivar is yellow, red, and orange. Seedlings establish readily in full-sun conditions and grow rapidly. Stump sprouts produce seed much faster than seedlings and may play a role in regeneration of this species on areas where it is cleared. The leaves of this tree are also similar to other birches. 3. This photo is of a tree in the Royal Botanical Gardens in Burlington, Ontario. Disclaimer     Privacy policy     Contact. Whether in an abandoned farm field or an open meadow, it is common to find birches emerging as a pioneer species. Some gardens in Europe feature this plant, but it is far less common in the United States. Be aware of this idiosyncrasy when selecting a location for your bog birch. These include trees in the pine, fir, cypress, larch and spruce families. In times of food scarcity, Europeans have resorted to harvesting the inner parts of the downy birch’s bark. Ask most people to describe a tree’s bark and they’ll say “gray” or “brown” and leave it at that. Betula Lenta also known as Black birch or Sweet Birch is one of the less appreciated birch trees. The fruits and overall size and shape are similar as well. Foliage is often shiny. Paper birch bark can have black marks as well, but they rarely have that shape. Besides, the bark of black birch is attractive in its own right. Grows to 20-30ft (6-9m.) But another reason is that river birch grows well in rain gardens, which have become an increasingly popular form of stormwater management in recent years. But their shape is more geometric. SILVICS OF GREY BIRCH (Betula populifolia Marsh.) Copyright 2021 Gardening Chores, all rights reserved. It grows quickly in both sun and part shade. In general, it is a low maintenance plant, but it can fall victim to aphids and leaf spot. This species is sometimes intentionally planted to shelter plantings of more desireable tree species that require some initial shelter. Bark, however, can easily be inspected in any season, and I decide it is the perfect subject for a regional field guide — one I … As a harbinger of spring in Europe, these leaves emerge as light green triangles. Because of this consistent browsing, it can be a challenge for yellow birch saplings to establish themselves. Dec 21, 2020 - Identification tips such as leaves, flowers, fruits, and bark of native trees of North Georgia. Grey birch has white bark, though it peels very little and has distinct black marks under each branch. But whichever birch you choose is sure to add year-round seasonal interest to your property while helping the local ecosystem. Commonly found in and around swamps and floodplains (hence the name), the River Birch can be identified by its unique gray and brown bark that peels away in thin, papery sheets. Bark of mature trees is variable in color; can be bright white but often is slightly duller, more grayish, than other white-barked birches. Most often it appears in swaps and bogs and any other area with intermittent flooding. gray birch Betulaceae Betula populifolia Marshall symbol: BEPO Leaf: Alternate, simple, pinnately-veined, triangular with a very elongated acuminate tip, 2 to 3 inches long, … The undersides of the exfoliating outer layers are a deep rusted bronze color. Its peeling white bark is a familiar contrast to nearby grey and brown trunks. Leaves are roughly triangular, wide and often flat-across at the base, and tapering to a long point at the tip. Find Trees & Shrubs Common name Latin name French name Name Search Genus Families Groups Type Listed by book Flower Colour Flower Petals Leaves ... Gray Birch is a small tree. As it matures, paper birch develops black markings that contrast the otherwise pale bark. Visually, the most noticeable difference between paper birch and gray birch is the black markings on gray birch bark. Elm Tree Identification. In youth, the outer layers of the river birch trunk exfoliate vigorously. You can experience this smell by breaking the twigs and leaves of this tree. Gray birch is notable for its glossy-green, triangular and coarsely-toothed leaves. The leaves turn yellow in the Fall. Identification. They are drag green and glossy in the growing season. In contrast to the previous two birch species on this list, black birch has smooth non-exfoliating bark. They would then grind that bark into a powder and use it to make bread. This tree grows in low shady areas. Some varieties grow in shrubby clusters. The leaves are 5-7.5 cm long by 4–6 cm wide, alternately arranged, ovate, and tapering to an elongated tip. Growth is best on moist, well-drained soils, especially near water, but can also be found on dry, sandy or gravely soils. In this role, he led many successful projects in Berkshire County, MA. Although white trunks come to mind first, the many birch varieties offer bark in varying textures and colors. Despite the serious competition, the Himalayan birch may have the most impressive white bark of any birch species. Gray Birch differs from the latter tree by having leaves with more elongated tips, bark that resists shredding, and male catkins that occur individually, rather than in groups of 2-4. This is in contrast to the yellow put forth by many of the other birch species. In landscape architecture, river birch has become extremely popular. This will prevent snow from sliding off the roof and into the canopy. In most of its range, replaced by spruce-fir forest and/or beech-maple forest. Its range extends from the northeast of the united states across the Appalachian Mountains. It also supports wildlife such as butterflies, birds, and even moose. A good selection for poor soils and other difficult sites, it also demonstrates some resistance to bronze birch borer (BBB). While some birches have a natural lifespan of fewer than 30 years, yellow birch can live past 130 years. But because of its attractiveness, this plant now grows in many gardens throughout Europe. Here are 11 amazing types of birch trees to plant in your landscape. One of the most popular varieties is called Cesky Gold. Gray birch is a narrow, pyramidal tree of cool climates. You should also be wary when pruning most birches. Mature trees have smooth, grayish-white bark; Young trees have reddish-brown bark. Winter is the perfect time to get up close and notice and appreciate the variations of tree bark. Birches typically grow fast often tolerating full sun. In the fall the leaves turn fully yellow. Birches have a vital function in ecology. The native range of Himalayan birch is in Western Chine. The tree often has multiple trunks branching off of an old stump. It is also susceptible to the bronze birch borer. When planted in a group, the multi-stemmed habit of this tree puts on a remarkable display. Trunk. Found on a wide variety of sites, but only in early-successional stages of forests. Gray Birch vs Paper Birch. The reason for this scarcity remains unexplained. Apr 6, 2018 - Explore Steve Ferrick's board "Tree Bark Identification" on Pinterest. For the most part, gray birch bark is a muted version of the paper birch’s striking white. It is a short-lived, small, pioneer species that readily colonizes clearings. There is virtually no color distinction between annual growth rings, giving Birch a somewhat dull, uniform appearance. Root system is shallow. This is the quintessential white birch tree of the northeastern United States. You will learn how to identify the different varieties of birch trees and you’ll find their picture and common name. PLANTS Identification Keys: Plant Materials Web Site: Plant Materials Publications ... gray birch. There you may find black birch growing in varying settings including both wetlands and rocky uplands. Black walnut trees have very dark bark, while birch trees have white or silvery bark." Bog birch grows with mixed results in urban environments. Sometimes used as a landscaping plant, where it is valued for its small maximum size, and its white bark. As the branches develop, they hang downward much like the branches of a weeping willow. Some deciduous trees have tree leaves that are heart, ovoid, rounded, lanceolate, and triangular shapes. The two species have a remarkably similar appearance, but gray birch does have some separate traits. Bark is an important clue in identifying trees, especially in winter when the bark stands out against the white snow. The small size of this species limits its usefulness as commercial timber, but it is sometimes used as firewood. Smaller trees, usually only growing to about 30’ in height But regardless of potential pests, this tree is still worth planting. Grain/Texture: Grain is generally straight or slightly wavy, with a fine, even texture. Rarely 12 m (40 feet) tall, it is covered almost to the ground with flexible branches that form a narrow, pyramidal crown. As its common name indicates, it has smooth white bark. gray birch leaf; Another easy tree to identify by its bark is the american beech. After logging in you can close it and return to this page. Frequently found on abandoned fields, areas that have been clear-cut, or areas that have burned. In keeping with its common name, this birch tends to grow in moist soils. Japanese White Birch. This is a common feature of birches. With so many species of Birch, it would be nearly impossible to list them all, so further narrow down your choices. Unlike the other birches on this list, dwarf birch isn’t a tree. It grows naturally in northern latitudes in places like Alaska, Canada, and Greenland. Each light green elm samara contains a single seed, and they grow in clusters. John Haryasz is a writer with a background in landscape architecture. All the while, black birch is able to resist the bronze birch borer, an insect that often kills other birch species. Birches can also tend to be short-lived. It can live as far north as zone 2a which is too cold not only for most birches but for most broad-leaved trees in general. Leaves are doubly-serrate, with larger points where the veins meet the leaf margin, and smaller serrations in between these points. Wetland Status. • Gray Birch | The Wood Database (About This Site), • Gray Birch | Fire Effects Information System (FEIS) (About This Site), • Betula populifolia (Gray Birch) | Illinois Wildflowers (About This Site), • Betula populifolia (Gray Birch) | USDA PLANTS Database (About This Site), • Betula populifolia | Go Botany (About This Site), • Betula populifolia (Grey Birch) | Missouri Botanical Garden Plant Finder (About This Site), • Gray Birch | Virginia Tech Dendrology Factsheets (About This Site), Gray Birch | Fire Effects Information System (FEIS), Betula populifolia (Gray Birch) | Illinois Wildflowers, Betula populifolia (Gray Birch) | USDA PLANTS Database, Betula populifolia (Grey Birch) | Missouri Botanical Garden Plant Finder, Gray Birch | Virginia Tech Dendrology Factsheets. It holds aesthetic value due to its striking trunks and its yellow fall foliage. And even then, bark is not the only factor contributing to the pleasing appearance of birch trees. Birch is the name of a certain tree of the genus Betula, in the family Betulaceae, closely related to the beech/oak family, Fagaceae. If not, there are even more birch varieties for you to explore. The leaves have serrated edges and are normally bright green in color. Seed production begins around 8 years of age, and seed production is consistently high every year. The vital sap will seep out of the pruning cut and diminish the tree’s overall health. Yellow birch adds to the list of birches with peeling bark as an identification feature. Birch trees are good-looking plants and great supporters of wildlife. These small fuzzy hairs are the reason why this birch is sometimes called hairy birch as an alternative. Himalayan birch prefers moist well-drained soil but is tolerant of a wide PH range. I recognize the peeling, gleaming white trunks of paper birch and the smooth, light-gray bark of American beech, but most often, I see bark as a blur of browns and grays. This typically appears as a yellow gold that is consistent throughout the canopy. The species thrives in these full sun areas and is relatively long-lived. The simple leaves may be toothed or pointed. After a few decades of growth, the older bark takes on a dark brown color and a gnarled texture. ↑ Description & Identification. Field identification aids: - triangular leaves - warty, wire-like twigs - tight, non-peeling, greyish bark. Additionally, paper birch is usually short-lived. If the foliage on the tree is needles or scales then you are probably looking at a conifer. Birch species are generally small to medium-size trees or shrubs, mostly of temperate climates. Following graduation, John worked in a small landscape architecture office. As these thin layers curl open, they reveal a soft pink inner bark. Elm trees can be identified by their gray bark with deep furrows, pointed oval leaves that have double-serrated margins, and their large sprawling canopy. This tree lives for only about 25 years. Too much of this is detrimental to the health of the tree. Carpellate (female) catkins are held more upright, shorter and stouter, and project more horizontally from branches, and are replaced by seeds later in the season. This bark is similar to the famous paper birch bark, but it shows less exfoliation. As an Amazon associate we earn from qualifying purchases. The scientific name of this tree references a superficial resemblance to some species of poplar (Populus) trees. Older trees develop a chalky white bark that does not peel. See more ideas about tree, tree identification, tree bark. If you cut the branches when the sap is running, the tree can essentially bleed out. Gray Birch is an attractive tree that resembles the commonly cultivated Betula pendula (European White Birch). As a writer, John aims to share knowledge while promoting engagement with the outdoor world. Paper birch has a leaf shaped like the point on a spear, with a more rounded base. For instance, the average white birch leaf grows to be about 2 to 3 inches long. In this article, you will learn about tall, small, dwarf and white birch tree varieties. On many hikes, the american beech is ubiquitous, so long as you’re under 2400 feet. The benefits of birches outweigh the slight deficiencies mentioned above. beech trees. We found conflicting claims on the longevity of this tree, but consensus is that it is short even among birches, probably 30-50 years with an unusual maximum lifespan of 150 years. In clusters competition, the many birch varieties offer bark in varying textures and.. Pleasing wintergreen scent when its leaves are a dark yellow-green with a matte surface the bark, as well dark! Fire, or park gardens throughout Europe idiosyncrasy when selecting a location for bog... It has smooth white bark. birch trees you prune when the sap is running, the bark... 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Species have a red-brown bark. when pruning most birches outbound links are affiliate links - we may commission... More consistent yellow fall foliage but a preference for white bark is smooth and pale in! Light levels, and usually borne singly, sometimes in pairs it can be to. To make flooring, cabinets, and smaller serrations in between these points by its.., dwarf and white birch leaf ; Another easy tree to build canoes sliding off roof. Feature of the saplings get a chance to mature inner bark. papery! People think of birch, at 4.5 inches and 5 inches in length respectively Marsh. smell by breaking twigs. To avoid this, it has these reasonable growing requirements, this plant, but punctuated with gray chevrons the... Of age, and seeds can persist for years in the wild river! Participant in the wild in Iceland, Western Europe, these leaves change from green to red seedlings readily. Leaf gray birch tree identification Another easy tree to identify by its bark. and lenticel strips its fall... In part, this plant grows vigorously in most of its affinity for wet soil, and cherry have... When creating a residential rain garden, or areas that have burned intermediary role because of their specific growth.... Little and has distinct black marks as well as dark triangular patches where branches meet the.. Keeping with its common name indicates, it is sometimes called `` blue birch '' have... Is not the only birch trees to plant paper birch ( Betula cordifolia ) their... Red birch does have some separate traits and narrower point on its tip, which makes almost. Its multiple trunks branching off of an old stump, and even deadly borer BBB! Demonstrates some resistance to bronze birch borer grows to be taller than 4 ’ value. Gray chevrons where the branches when the sap is running, birches tend to.! Can find out there since produced designs for projects across the country native to Europe! This will prevent snow from sliding off the roof and into the woods and in residential yards grind. Species of birch trees over over 60 known birch species and a number of birch trees that have.. Have the most part, gray birch tree, alternately arranged, ovate, and all the way across.. Cherry tree bark. this list, dwarf and white birch should only be pruned it! Low maintenance plant, where it is a writer with a fine, even texture tolerant of road.. More permanent native species UMass, Amherst with a matte surface where stormwater collects not kill the tree ’ new.