Betula populifolia ‘Whitespire’, commonly known as Whitespire Gray Birch, is a fast-growing, narrow deciduous tree selected for its clean white bark and exceptional resistance to bronze birch borer. A cultivated form of the native Gray Birch, this adaptable tree typically grows 20 to 40 feet tall and 10 to 20 feet wide, forming a graceful, upright shape with multiple trunks or a single leader. Its dark green, triangular leaves flutter in the breeze and turn golden yellow in fall, offering seasonal interest from spring through late autumn. The smooth, chalky-white bark adds striking winter appeal. ‘Whitespire’ is highly tolerant of poor, dry, or sandy soils and is an excellent choice for naturalized plantings, tough urban sites, or restoration projects. As a cultivar of a native species, it supports wildlife and pollinators by serving as a host plant for native Lepidoptera and offering seeds for birds.

Why choose Whitespire Gray Birch:

• Ornamental bark: Bright white bark offers year-round visual interest

• Native toughness: Tolerates dry, sandy, or nutrient-poor soils

• Ecological value: Supports native pollinators and seed-eating birds

Cultivating tips:

• Sun exposure: Prefers full sun to light shade

• Soil needs: Thrives in well-drained, poor, or sandy soils; avoid compacted or wet clay

• Maintenance: Minimal; prune in winter to maintain form and remove weak growth

Designs for your garden:

• Native and naturalized plantings: A great choice for informal or wild gardens

• Restoration sites: Thrives in disturbed soils and contributes to early successional growth

• Pollinator gardens: Host plant for butterflies and moths, with seeds enjoyed by birds

Ecological benefits:

• Native cultivar: Retains the habitat value of the species while offering improved pest resistance

• Wildlife support: Provides cover, larval food, and seeds for local fauna

• Resilient landscape tree: Ideal for challenging soils and sustainable planting designs