Yellow Birch
Betula alleghaniensis
Last reviewed: June 2026
Betula alleghaniensis (Yellow Birch) is a deciduous native tree found throughout eastern North America from Maine to Georgia. This medium to large birch blooms in May and June, supporting bees and beetles as pollinators.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Yellow Birch as toxic to livestock.
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
600"–900" H × 300"–600" W
Bloom
May, Jun
Native to
AL, CT, GA, IA and 21 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Yellow birch is a large native tree with distinctive golden-bronze bark that peels in thin, papery strips. It develops into a stately shade tree with bright yellow fall color and graceful branching structure.
Growing Yellow Birch
Grow Yellow Birch in part sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 600 to 900 inches tall and spread 300 to 600 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Yellow Birch is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, mid zone, street edge.
- Extremely large mature size requires ample space
- Peeling bark may be perceived as untidy by some
Wildlife value
Host plant for white admiral butterfly, polyphemus moth.
Supports bees and beetles during spring bloom period. The seeds and buds provide food for birds, while the bark and leaves host various native insects.
Common questions
- Where is Yellow Birch native?
- Yellow Birch is native to eastern North America, naturally occurring in states from Maine south to Georgia and west to Minnesota and Iowa.
- When does Yellow Birch bloom?
- Yellow Birch produces flowers in May and June, with male catkins appearing before the leaves emerge in spring.
- What pollinators visit Yellow Birch?
- Yellow Birch flowers attract bees and beetles, which help pollinate the wind-pollinated catkins when they visit for pollen and nectar.
- What growing conditions does Yellow Birch prefer?
- Yellow Birch grows best in partial sun to partial shade with medium to high moisture levels, often found in cool, moist forests and along stream banks.
- Is Yellow Birch toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Yellow Birch as toxic to livestock.
- Is Yellow Birch HOA-friendly?
- Yellow 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 Yellow 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