Downy birch

Betula pubescens

Layer 1 · Canopy
Dynamic accumulator

Status by region

No restrictions recorded in the lists we checked.

Checked against the European Union list (Regulation 1143/2014) · Portugal's national invasive species list (Decreto-Lei 92/2019).

Information based on the cited sources, not legal advice — always confirm your local rules.

About

Native to northern and central Europe, it is a medium-sized pioneer tree adapted to damp, acidic soils. It has whitish bark and a light canopy that allows light to pass through to the understorey. In permaculture, it acts as a nutrient accumulator and transition species.

See which trees downy birch grows well with

These trees share this species' soil and climate — the pairing is inferred from conditions, not from a guild we have already seen.

Kiwi vine

No account needed.

Needs

Water: High
Light: Full sun
Size: Deciduous tree up to 20 m
Mature diameter: 6 m
Soils: Clay, Loam, Sandy
Climates: Atlantic coast, Inland / Continental, Mountain / cold

Calendar

January — Planting
February — Planting
March — Harvest
April — Harvest
May — Harvest
June
July
August
September
October
November — Planting
December — Planting

Harvest
Planting

Medicinal use: The sap and leaves are traditionally used in purifying and diuretic infusions.

Where to buy

Central trees worth considering

May work well together — same soil and climate, complementary layers. We have not seen this combination in a generated guild yet.

Kiwi vine

May grow well with

Suggestions worked out from growing conditions — same soil and climate, complementary layers and functions. These are not observed guilds; treat them as a starting point to try on your own land.