Yellow Birch

A beautiful, large, and slow-growing hardwood tree of rich northern forests and southern uplands and cool gorges, this species is beloved for good reason. Significantly more long-lived than most other native birch species (it can reach ages of up to 300 years), this tree tends to have beautiful, curling golden/bronze bark and gorgeous bright yellow fall color. Flowers are somewhat inconspicuous but showier than many birches, with green/gold catkins forming in April eventually turning to plump, slightly fuzzy cones of seeds. Tolerates occasionally wet conditions and a variety of soil types, including both upland and lowland conditions, and can be grown in rain gardens. Generally does not tolerate high pollution levels or hot, dry conditions, much preferring cool, slightly moist soil. Of the many, many species this tree supports, it's a host plant for a number of species of moths and butterflies (including Eastern Tiger Swallowtails ), but also supports Northern Saw-Whet Owls and flying squirrels, which like to use hollows in these trees for nesting sites. Squirrels in particular may use the exfoliating bark to line their nests. This species of tree also has a long shared history with humans, as its wood is quite durable, and its bark can be used for starting fires and is also waterproof, making these the source of wood for a number of crafts (including canoes) for many northern Native American tribes.

60-75 foot tall
Plant Hardiness Zones: 2a-7b
Tree

Native Range: ME south to GA, west to TN, IL, IA, MN. Native to Canada in ON and QC. Considered rare in SC and IL.

Yellow Birch - 1-2 foot tall in a quart pot $19.75

Yellow Birch - 2-3 foot tall in a quart pot $23.00

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