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BETULA papyrifera
Paper Birch
Stock: Available
Family: Betulaceae
Characteristics: Medium tree 15-20 m generally smaller in cultivation
Seeds per packets: 200
A fast growing ornamental tree with grey-white bark with a mild orange-pink tint as it peels back as it matures. As the tree matures, black horizontal lines appear to contrast with the white adding to the ornamental appeal.
The dark-green leaves are lightly-toothed and turn a stunning golden hue in autumn
Endemic to North America.
Prefers a cool deep well-drained soil in an open sunny position, frost resistant but drought tender.
Cold stratification is recommended for this species. This can be replicated by cold stratification in the refrigerator or alternatively over wintering in the garden in cold climates will assist germination.
Cold treatment is not critical for germination to occur but should give increased germination rates.
Seed are best sown in spring. The optimum germination temperature for germination is around 16-22°C
- Sow seed on surface of a porous seed raising mix. The seed will lodge in the the pores of the mix once watered.
- Sprinkle a very light covering of the seed raising mix over the seed if required to hold the seed in place. Do not bury seed deeply.
- Water with fine mist spray to avoid disturbance of the seed.
- Ensure the mix is moist but not water logged.
- Place the container in plastic bag.
- Place the bagged container in the refrigerator for 6-8 weeks.
- Place in a warm shaded or semi shaded position to avoid dying out.
- Keep warm & moist, avoid drying out or waterlogging the growing mix.
- Germination generally occurs in 14-28 days when moved to warmer temperatures after the period of cold treatment.
General note: Seeds of many plants are dormant and require specific conditions or pre-treatment for germination.
Do not be too hasty to discard seed that does not germinate, seeds will often lay dormant until the conditions are similar to their natural requirements for germination to occur. Containers put to one side will often surprise long after they were discarded.
