White Birch
Betula populifolia
Last reviewed: June 2026
Betula populifolia (White Birch) is a deciduous tree native to northeastern and mid-Atlantic states, blooming in April and May. This adaptable birch tolerates various conditions and supports bees and beetles as pollinators.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag White Birch as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
240"–600" H × 120"–300" W
Bloom
Apr, May
Native to
CT, DE, IL, IN and 13 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
White birch is a graceful native tree with distinctive white bark marked by dark horizontal lines. It grows as a medium-sized deciduous tree that provides light shade and four-season interest through its attractive bark, yellow fall color, and delicate branching pattern.
Growing White Birch
Grow White Birch in full sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 240 to 600 inches tall and spread 120 to 300 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
White Birch is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, street edge, mid zone.
- May drop small branches in storms
- Can be short-lived in stressed conditions
Wildlife value
Host plant for sphinx moth, tiger swallowtail butterfly.
The tree supports various pollinators including bees and beetles during its spring bloom period. It also provides nesting sites for birds and its seeds feed finches and other small songbirds.
Common questions
- Where is White Birch native?
- White Birch is native to states from Maine to South Carolina, including the Northeast, Mid-Atlantic, and parts of the Midwest like Illinois, Indiana, and Ohio.
- When does White Birch bloom?
- White Birch blooms in April and May, producing catkins that attract bees and beetles for pollination.
- What growing conditions does White Birch prefer?
- White Birch grows best in full sun to partial sun and adapts to wet, medium, or dry soil conditions, making it quite versatile for different sites.
- What pollinators visit White Birch?
- Bees and beetles are the primary pollinators of White Birch, visiting the tree's catkins during the spring blooming period.
- Is White Birch toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag White Birch as toxic to livestock.
- Is White Birch HOA-friendly?
- White 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 White 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