Betula populifolia
Gray birch
 
Betula populifolia, gray birch, is a fast-growing native pioneer tree that specializes in showing up where the land has been disturbed and getting the forest started again. Typically reaching 20–40 feet tall, it’s recognized by its chalky white bark with dark triangular marks beneath the branches and small triangular leaves that flutter constantly in the wind.
 
Gray birch thrives in full to part sun and a variety of soils, often colonizing sandy or gravelly ground where other trees struggle. In New England landscapes it pairs naturally with early successional species such as Populus tremuloides, Prunus serotina, Rhus typhina, and Comptonia peregrina, helping stabilize soils and rebuild habitat.
 
Ecologically it punches well above its weight—its seeds feed birds such as American goldfinch black-capped chickadee, while the foliage supports numerous Lepidoptera larvae including species of Nymphalis and Epirrita. Short-lived but hardworking, gray birch is one of the quiet architects of recovering landscapes.
 
Plants can be purchased in-person or online (with in-person pick-up).
All online orders will be ready for pick-up 24-72 hours after purchase. You will receive an email to let you know when your order is ready. We kindly ask that you pick-up any orders within one week of purchase.