Species Bog Birch
green foliage with yellow stems

Bog Birch

Betula pumila

Also Known As - Swamp Birch,Dwarf Birch,Dwarf Birch
Bog birch (Betula pumila) is a species of penstemon valued for its low-growing, delicate form. It typically forms small, deciduous shrubs with narrow, ovate leaves that are silvery-green in summer and yellow to brown in the fall. The drooping, dark catkins appear in spring, while the yellow fruits emerge in summer. Bog birch can be seen thriving in bogs, marshes, and fens, in acidic or sandy soils. Colonizing and spreading by long rhizomes, it attracts birds, which favor its dense foliage and fruits. This versatile, easy-care species works well in rock gardens, cottage gardens, and around ponds. It's also drought-tolerant, making it a great choice for hot, dry regions.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Frequent

Propagation:

Cutting,Layering Propagation,Grafting Propagation,Division,Seed Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

Flowers:

Yellow Flowers

Sun:

Sun, Partial Shade

Soil:

Sandy,Loamy,Clay,Humus,Rocky

Fruits:

red,brown Fruits Ready In Fall

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green,yellow,orange,brown

Growth Rate:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Invasive:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Bog Birch (Betula pumila) should be watered 2 to 3 times a week during the spring and summer months. During the colder winter months, it should be watered less often, about once a month. When watering, it should be done with lukewarm or tepid water and the soil should always be kept moist. Make sure to keep the soil consistently damp so as not to soil become overly dry. If the soil does become dry, it should be soaked thoroughly through. To ensure the plant is not over watered, the pot should have a drainage hole to allow excess water to escape.

sunlight

Bog birch is a plant species native to wetlands and boggy areas. It requires full sunlight for much of the year and prefers 6 to 8 hours of sunlight each day. For optimal growth, it should be provided at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight during April–August, but can also tolerate some indirect sunlight during the rest of the year. Bog birch will suffer from lack of sunlight, resulting in stunted growth or yellowing leaves. During the winter months, it may be beneficial to give the plant extra light, such as by using a grow light.

pruning

Bog Birch (Betula pumila) does not typically require pruning, as it is a slow-growing, low-maintenance shrub. If desired, pruning can be done in late winter or early spring, as buds are beginning to swell but before new growth begins. It is best to prune lightly and selectively, removing small branches and leaves that are dead, broken, or diseased, as well as any branches that are crossing, rubbing, or growing in a downward direction. Pruning doesn’t need to be done every year, but can be done every few years or when the shrub begins to look unsightly or out of shape. Avoid excessive or hard pruning, as Bog Birch is a slower-growing shrub that may not recover as quickly from harsh pruning.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Harvest Fruit

Harvesting of Betula pumila typically begins in late summer, usually in August or September.

Starts Flowering

Betula pumila typically starts flowering in April.

Harvest Fruit

Harvesting of Betula pumila typically begins in late summer, usually in August or September.