Canoe Birch
Betula papyrifera
Last reviewed: June 2026
Betula papyrifera is a distinctive white-barked deciduous tree native to northern and mountainous regions across North America. This canoe birch blooms in May and June, supporting bees and beetles as important pollinators.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Canoe Birch as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
600"–1200" H × 300"–600" W
Bloom
May, Jun
Native to
CO, CT, IA, ID and 23 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Canoe birch is a white-barked tree growing 50-100 feet tall with distinctive peeling bark that reveals creamy white layers. This fast-growing deciduous tree produces small catkins in spring and develops bright yellow fall color.
Growing Canoe Birch
Grow Canoe Birch in full sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 600 to 1200 inches tall and spread 300 to 600 inches wide. Expect moderate maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Canoe Birch is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, street edge, mid zone.
- Drops small branches and bark pieces
- Can develop multiple trunks if not pruned
Wildlife value
Host plant for mourning cloak butterfly, arctic skipper.
Supports bees and beetles during its spring bloom period. The seeds provide food for birds, and the tree hosts numerous native moth and butterfly caterpillars.
Common questions
- Where is Betula papyrifera naturally found?
- Canoe birch is native to a wide range across northern and mountainous states, from Maine to Washington and south through the Rocky Mountains and Great Lakes region.
- When does canoe birch bloom?
- Betula papyrifera produces flowers in May and June, with small catkins that attract bees and beetles for pollination.
- What growing conditions does canoe birch prefer?
- This species thrives in full sun to partial sun with medium to high moisture levels, making it well-suited to areas with consistent water availability.
- What pollinators visit Betula papyrifera?
- Canoe birch flowers attract bees and beetles, which help pollinate the small catkins during the spring blooming period.
- Is Canoe Birch toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Canoe Birch as toxic to livestock.
- Is Canoe Birch HOA-friendly?
- Canoe Birch is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with moderate maintenance.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Canoe Birch? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz