Back
Photograph of Downy birch
Photo: Wikipedia

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 through to the understorey. In permaculture, it acts as a nutrient accumulator and a transition species.

See which trees the downy birch grows well with

We have no trees recorded with this species yet. Start from the tree on your land.

See the central trees

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

  1. January — Planting
  2. February — Planting
  3. March — Harvest
  4. April — Harvest
  5. May — Harvest
  6. June
  7. July
  8. August
  9. September
  10. October
  11. November — Planting
  12. December — Planting
  • Harvest
  • Planting

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

Where to buy

Related plants

Other species in the same layer or with the same function.

See which trees the downy birch grows well with

We have no trees recorded with this species yet. Start from the tree on your land.

See the central trees

No account needed.

Not ready to map your land yet?

Get the free mini-guide to starting an edible forest.

We use your email only for the guide and MyArbora news. Privacy policy