Betula papyrifera / Paper birch

Origin: North America.

Botanical characteristics: it is a fast-growing ornamental tree, that reaches 20 m in height. It has a conical shape with chalky white bark that peels off in thin and waterproof layers, revealing an orange bark below. It has unisexual flowers (monoecious plant) on drooping catkins which bloom in spring. The male ones are up to 10 cm long. Leaves are ovoid, dark green, up to 10 cm long and in autumn they turn orange-red.

Agronomic and environmental characteristics: It needs fertile, moist but well-drained lands.

Use: It is an ornamental plant used in parks and gardens, both isolated and in groups.