Silver Birch Tree 60/80cm (P9)

The Silver Birch is one of our most graceful native trees. Its slender frame and distinctive white bark bring year-round beauty to any garden. The bark starts as a warm brown when young, gradually turning brilliant white with dark diamond-shaped markings as it matures.

The delicate, triangular leaves dance in the lightest breeze, creating gentle movement and casting dappled shade beneath. In spring, long yellow catkins appear alongside the emerging leaves, adding extra interest. Come autumn, the leaves turn a lovely butter yellow before falling.

This tree is perfect for smaller gardens, making an eye-catching focal point. It works brilliantly in natural-style planting schemes and pairs beautifully with spring bulbs and woodland plants growing beneath. Birds love silver birch trees, particularly small finches who feed on the seeds.

These trees have been part of British gardens for centuries, traditionally seen as a symbol of new beginnings and renewal. They’re brilliant for wildlife, supporting hundreds of insect species.

Silver Birch trees are remarkably easy to grow in British gardens. They prefer full sun or partial shade and will thrive in most soils, though they don’t like waterlogged conditions. No regular pruning is needed – simply remove any dead or crossing branches in late summer or early autumn. They’re very hardy and cope well with cold winters and urban pollution. Young trees need regular watering for the first few years, but once established, they’re quite drought-tolerant.

Ultimate height
Higher than 12 metres

Time to ultimate height
20–50 years

Ultimate spread
Wider than 8 metres