Species

tree RHS Award

Young's Weeping Birch

The Story

Plant Bio

Betula pendula, or European white birch, is a graceful, medium-sized deciduous tree known for its distinctive white, peeling bark and delicate, drooping branchlets.

'Youngii' is a strongly weeping cultivar that forms a dome-shaped, mushroom-like canopy with branches that cascade to the ground. It lacks a central leader, so its ultimate height is determined by the height at which it was grafted.

Uses & Benefits:

A highly architectural specimen tree, valued for its dramatic weeping form that creates a living sculpture in the landscape. The bright white, peeling bark provides striking winter interest, while the golden-yellow fall color adds seasonal beauty.

Its small stature makes it suitable for small gardens, courtyards, or as a focal point in a mixed border. The dense, weeping canopy can create a secluded, shaded space underneath, perfect for a child's play area or a hidden bench.

Birch trees support a wide variety of insects, which in turn provide food for birds. The seeds in the catkins are eaten by birds like siskins and redpolls. The peeling bark provides nesting material and shelter for insects.

SpeciesBetula pendulaSilver Birch

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

120"

Width

144"

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7

Water

Moderate to high

Humidity

Prefers cool, moderate humidity

Lifespan

Short-lived (20-40 years)

Native To

Europe and Asia

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Early spring – Mid-spring

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Choose a site with full sun to light shade and moist, well-drained, acidic soil.
Dig a planting hole that is shallow and wide, about three times the root ball diameter.
Set the tree so the top of the root ball is slightly above the surrounding grade.
Backfill with the native soil, avoiding amendments.
Water thoroughly to settle the soil and remove air pockets.
Apply a 3-inch layer of organic mulch over the entire root zone.

Pro Tip

Keep the root zone cool and moist with a wide layer of mulch and consistent watering, as birch trees are sensitive to heat and drought stress.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply and regularly, especially during hot, dry weather.
Mulch widely to keep the shallow roots cool.
Plant in a location with good air circulation.
Monitor for signs of bronze birch borer.

Don't

Do not plant in hot, dry locations or heavy clay soil.
Avoid pruning in late winter or spring when the sap is running heavily.
Don't compact the soil over the root zone with foot traffic or equipment.
Avoid wounding the trunk with mowers or string trimmers.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Mulch
Pest Check
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Graceful weeping specimen for a small lawnArchitectural focal point near a water featureDramatic accent in a rock garden

Companion Plants

Hosta AstilbeJapanese Forest Grass (Hakonechloa) Brunnera macrophylla Carex

Good to Know

Common Questions

Young's Weeping Birch questions

What zones can Young's Weeping Birch grow in?

Young's Weeping Birch is hardy in USDA Zones 4–7. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Young's Weeping Birch deer resistant?

Yes — Young's Weeping Birch is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Young's Weeping Birch bloom?

Young's Weeping Birch typically blooms in early spring through mid-spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Young's Weeping Birch need full sun?

Young's Weeping Birch does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.