Betula utilis is a birch tree native to the Western Himalayas, growing at elevations up to 4,500 m. The white, paper-like bark of the tree was used in ancient times for writing Sanskrit scriptures and texts.
Himalayan birch Care
Betula utilis
Other names: Betula Albosinensis, Betula Bhojpattra, Betula Albo-sinensis, Chinese Red-barked Birch
What is the plant
Betula utilis is still used as paper for the writing of sacred mantras, with the bark placed in an amulet and worn for protection. Selected varieties are used for landscaping throughout the world, even while some areas of its native habitat are being lost due to overuse of the tree for firewood. In its native habitat, the tree tends to form forests, growing as a shrub or tree reaching up to 20 m (66 ft) tall. It frequently grows among scattered conifers, with an undergrowth of shrubs that typically includes evergreen Rhododendron. Leaves are ovate, 5 to 10 cm (2.0 to 3.9 in) long, with serrated margins, and slightly hairy. Flowering occurs from May-July.
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Lighting
Full Sun
Hardiness zone
5a - 6b
Difficulty
Easy
How to Care for the Plant
Water
Water deeply, regularly during the first few growing seasons to establish an extensive root system; once established, maintain evenly moist soil.
Fertilizer
Feed with a general purpose fertilizer before new growth begins in spring.
Sunlight
Silver birches prefer an open, sunny site.
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Soil
The tree thrives in deep, loamy, moist but well-drained soil amended with sand or gravel, but highly adaptable.
Temperature
Exceptionally hardy, Himalayan birch performs best in cool northern climates where root zones are often covered with snow in the winter and does poorly in the heat and humid areas. In winter, the tree can withstand temperatures down to -23,3 to -20,6°C.
Popularity
72 people already have this plant 17 people have added this plant to their wishlists
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