Betula pendula

Betula pendula, also known as the silver birch, is a species of tree in the family Betulaceae, native to Europe and parts of Asia. It is commonly found in the northern temperate region, often in forests and woodlands.

Description

The Betula pendula is a medium-sized deciduous tree that typically grows to 15–25 m (49–82 ft) tall. The bark is white, often with black diamond-shaped marks or larger patches at the base. The shoots are rough with small warts, and leaves are triangular with a doubly serrate margin.

Distribution and habitat

Betula pendula is native to Europe and parts of Asia, from Iceland and the British Isles east to Kamchatka, and south to the mountains of the Mediterranean region. It is also naturalized in scattered locations in North America. It prefers light, well-drained soils, and is commonly found in forests and woodlands.

Uses

The wood of Betula pendula is used for furniture and plywood due to its strength and lightness. It is also used for firewood, as it burns well with a bright flame. The sap can be tapped and used to make birch sap wine. The bark is used in traditional medicine for its antiseptic properties.

Ecology

Betula pendula is a pioneer species, often one of the first to colonize open ground. It provides habitat and food for a variety of wildlife, including insects, birds, and mammals. It is also a host plant for a number of moth and butterfly species.

Cultivation

Betula pendula is widely cultivated as an ornamental tree, both for its attractive bark and its graceful, pendulous branches. It is also used in bonsai.

See also

• List of Betula species
• Birch sap
• Birch plywood

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