Betula × 'Crimson Frost'
Crimson Frost Birch

Family:

Betulaceae (Birch Family) 28

Genus:

Betula (Birch) 12

Plant Type:

Tree 569

Growth Forms:

Upright 574

Hardiness:

USDA Zone 4 520

Deciduous / Evergreen:

Deciduous 839

Flower Notes:

Brown (Small, greenish-brown catkins in early spring; not ornamentally important)

Foliage Notes:

Red-Violet (Reddish-purple summer foliage); Multi-Colored (Leaves can be a combination of reds, oranges, and yellows in the fall)

Fruit Notes:

Brown (Small nutlets in the summer; not ornamentally important)

Ultimate Height:

25-40 feet

Ultimate Spread:

15-25 feet

Bloom Times:

Light Requirements:

Soil Notes:

Prefers moist, well-drained, acidic soils; especially well adapted to wet soils and does not do well in dry situations

Range:

Cultivated origin

Maintenance:

High 16

Diagnostic Characteristics:

Leaves (1.5-3" long) have a truncate base, long tapering apex point, and doubly serrated margins. Axillary tufts are often found in vein axils under leaf. Resinous glands are present on young stems.

Ecological Functions:

Purdue Plant Doctor

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Special Characteristics:

Backdrop 30

Specimen 630

Notable Bark 168

Wet Soil Tolerant 109

Additional Information

This hybrid birch is very closely related to Betula platyphylla in form and care, with the exception of its striking red-purple leaves. It is a graceful tree, interesting for its pure white bark that contrasts nicely with the dark foliage. The Crimson Frost Birch is especially well adapted to wet soils, and does not do well in dry situations. Less subject to the borer troubles of B. papyrifera in the Midwest, although still susceptible.