How much sun does Hearleaf Birch need?

Hearleaf Birch grows best in part sun conditions.

When does Hearleaf Birch bloom?

Hearleaf Birch blooms in May and June.

Where is Hearleaf Birch native?

Hearleaf Birch (Betula cordifolia) is native to MA, ME, MI, MN and 10 more states, per vouchered herbarium specimen records and regional native plant society lists.

What butterflies or moths does Hearleaf Birch host?

Hearleaf Birch is a larval host plant for white admiral butterfly and compton tortoiseshell butterfly.

Is Hearleaf Birch HOA-friendly?

Hearleaf Birch is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.

Hearleaf Birch

Name: Pollinator Patch
Author: Pollinator Patch

Betula cordifolia

Last reviewed: September 2026

Toxicity unknown

Hearleaf Birch (Betula cordifolia) is not listed by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (opens in new tab) or the other sources we check, so we have no verdict for it either way. Absence from those lists is not a clearance. If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.

Light

part sun

Water

medium

Size

240"–720" H × 180"–480" W

Bloom

May, Jun

Native to

MA, ME, MI, MN and 10 more states

Pollinators

bees, beetles

Before you buy

Your city may pay you to plant this

Cities and water utilities offer rebates for replacing lawn with native and water-wise plants. We track 452 programs across 44 states, each with a link to the provider and the date we last checked it.

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Browse plants for this ecoregion

Northern Lakes and Forests North Central Hardwood Forests Driftless Area Southeastern Wisconsin Till Plains Northeastern Highlands Northeastern Coastal Zone Blue Ridge Ridge and Valley Acadian Plains and Hills

Heart-leaved paper birch is a native deciduous tree with distinctive white bark and heart-shaped leaves that turn golden yellow in fall. This medium to large tree develops an attractive branching pattern and provides excellent four-season interest in the landscape.

In an HOA neighborhood

Hearleaf 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 may require adequate spacing
Occasional branch drop during storms

Wildlife value

Host plant for white admiral butterfly, compton tortoiseshell butterfly.

Supports bees and beetles during its spring bloom period. The tree also provides habitat for various birds and small mammals throughout the year.

Common questions

How much sun does Hearleaf Birch need?: Hearleaf Birch grows best in part sun conditions.
When does Hearleaf Birch bloom?: Hearleaf Birch blooms in May and June.
Where is Hearleaf Birch native?: Hearleaf Birch (Betula cordifolia) is native to MA, ME, MI, MN and 10 more states, per vouchered herbarium specimen records and regional native plant society lists.
What butterflies or moths does Hearleaf Birch host?: Hearleaf Birch is a larval host plant for white admiral butterfly and compton tortoiseshell butterfly.
Is Hearleaf Birch HOA-friendly?: Hearleaf Birch is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.

Native range data from vouchered herbarium specimen records and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

If something looks wrong

Common plant problems, and what to check first

These come up on almost any plant. Each guide lists the likely causes in the order they are worth ruling out, with one thing to check before you act on any of them, and links to the source it came from.

See all plant problem guides

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