Grow Zones: Hardy in zones 2-7

Seed Size: Tiny, with seed strobles that open like wings

Paper birch trees feature super-fast growth (up to 2 ft per year)! They show a magnificent display of yellow, orange and gold fall coloring. Paired with the white trunks, the site of a row of them will take your breath away. White birch trees grow to a height of 50 ft or more. The trees can develop multiple trunks as they mature.

The life of the paper birch tree is one of vigorous beauty and youth, however it doesn't have a long lifespan per say. 140 years is the average lifespan (which is short for a tree). It makes for an excellent firewood. In fact, it is highly flammable. Nonetheless, most use it for plywood, veneer, paper manufacture and fuel.

*This tree could also be a host tree for those that wish to grow chaga mushroom.*

Chaga is a medicinal, energy-packed mushroom fungi well known to survivalists and ambitious hikers. It's value has peaked recently. Prices for chaga are at an all time high right now.

Unlike most trees, this one loves the cold weather and has adapted quite well to the Northern climate (including Northern California), where it grows natively. Grows best in full sun to partial shade. Tolerates most any soil type as long as there is proper drainage. Thrives in acidic soils.  If your white birch tree starts turning gray, freely give it a scrub and it will brighten up nicely again. Avoid pruning. Mulch the area to retain moisture.

Germination Procedure: Apply cold/moist stratification to seeds to simulate winter conditions in your freezer for 2 months. Next, sprinkle seeds on soil surface and gently press (avoid burying the seeds under the soil). The seeds need sunlight to germinate. Germinate in temperature ranges within 65-77 degrees. Germination time: 4-6 wks.