(Betula alleghaniensis)
If you are looking for something more unique for your yard, check out the yellow birch. The bark is yellow-gray to straw-like in color, and peeling into thin paper-like layers that cause a ragged appearance that you do not see everyday. Yellow birch provides a home to insect pollinators, small mammals, and songbirds. The fall color will not disappoint and the bronze-red colored bark provides year round interest.
Height and width at maturity: 60’ x 60’
Sun or shade: full to partial sun
Soil conditions: prefers well-drained acidic to slightly alkaline
Moisture tolerance: adaptable
Fall color: bright yellow/gold
Climate resilience (ability to withstand changing temperatures and precipitation patterns associated with climate change): moderate
Ash replacement? Yes!
For more information, visit Morton Arboretum.
Photo credits: The Morton Arboretum, Dulcey Lima, U of MN.