tree

Whitespire Birch

Betula platyphylla 'Whitespire'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

360 inches

Width

240 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7

Water

Medium

Humidity

Prefers low to moderate

Lifespan

Short to medium

Native To

Siberia, Northern China, Japan

Toxicity

Non-toxic

The Story

Plant Bio

Betula platyphylla, the Japanese White Birch, is a medium-sized deciduous tree prized for its brilliant white, non-exfoliating bark and graceful, pyramidal form. It features toothed, diamond-shaped green leaves that turn yellow in fall. 'Whitespire' was selected for its resistance to the bronze birch borer. It maintains a strong central leader and has chalk-white bark that does not peel. Note: 'Whitespire Senior' is the true borer-resistant variety.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

The primary ornamental feature is the striking, non-peeling, chalk-white bark which provides exceptional year-round, but especially winter, interest. Its pyramidal form and delicate foliage add grace to the landscape.

Its relatively narrow form allows it to be used in smaller landscapes where a large shade tree would not fit. Often planted in groves for a dramatic visual effect.

Birch trees support a wide variety of insects, which in turn feed birds. The seeds and catkins are eaten by birds like finches and siskins.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

Select a site with full sun and acidic, well-drained soil.
Ensure the root zone will remain cool, perhaps on a north-facing slope.
Dig a wide, shallow hole, no deeper than the root ball.
Plant the tree, keeping the root flare at or slightly above grade.
Water thoroughly and apply a 3-4 inch layer of organic mulch.
Keep consistently moist, especially during the first few years and dry spells.

Pro Tip

Plant in a location where the root zone is cool and shaded, but the canopy receives full sun, to mimic its natural habitat.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Mulch heavily over the root zone to keep soil cool and moist.
Water deeply during periods of drought.
Plant in groups of three or five for a naturalistic look.

Don't

Don't plant in hot, dry locations or heavy clay soil.
Avoid pruning between May 1 and August 1 to prevent borer attraction.
Don't fertilize mature trees unless a soil test indicates a deficiency.

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Stunning specimen for winter interestEffective in groves or multi-trunk clumpsContrasting element in mixed borders

Companion Plants

Hosta Heuchera Carex Vinca minor Astilbe

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Whitespire Birch questions

What zones can Whitespire Birch grow in?

Whitespire 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 Whitespire Birch deer resistant?

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

When does Whitespire Birch bloom?

Whitespire 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 Whitespire Birch need full sun?

Whitespire Birch does best in full sun (6+ hours).