Cherry Birch
Betula lenta
Last reviewed: June 2026
Cherry Birch is a deciduous tree native to eastern North America from Maine to Georgia. It blooms in April and May, attracting bees and beetles with its small flowers.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Cherry Birch as toxic to livestock.
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
300"–750" H × 240"–480" W
Bloom
Apr, May
Native to
AL, CT, GA, KY and 16 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Cherry birch is a medium to large native tree with smooth, dark bark that resembles cherry trees and aromatic twigs that smell like wintergreen when crushed. It develops a rounded crown and provides excellent fall color, making it an attractive shade tree for residential landscapes.
Growing Cherry Birch
Grow Cherry Birch in part sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 300 to 750 inches tall and spread 240 to 480 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Cherry Birch is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, mid zone, street edge.
- Large mature size requires adequate space
- Seasonal leaf drop in fall
Wildlife value
Host plant for luna moth, polyphemus moth.
The spring catkins attract bees and beetles for pollination. The seeds feed birds and small mammals, while the tree supports various native moth and butterfly caterpillars.
Common questions
- Where does Cherry Birch naturally grow?
- Cherry Birch is native to the eastern United States, ranging from Maine south to Georgia and west to Ohio and Kentucky. It grows naturally in mountainous and hilly regions.
- When does Cherry Birch bloom?
- Cherry Birch produces its flowers in April and May, typically blooming before the leaves fully emerge in spring.
- What pollinators visit Cherry Birch?
- Cherry Birch attracts bees and beetles to its spring flowers. The tree is wind-pollinated but these insects also visit the blooms.
- What growing conditions does Cherry Birch prefer?
- Cherry Birch adapts to various light conditions from full sun to partial shade and tolerates different moisture levels. It thrives in well-drained, slightly acidic soils.
- Is Cherry Birch toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Cherry Birch as toxic to livestock.
- Is Cherry Birch HOA-friendly?
- Cherry Birch is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low 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 Cherry 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