BlueBell Arboretum & Nursery

Mail order trees, shrubs, conifers and woody climbers

Description

An unusual tree which is native to North America, the species name 'lenta' means flexible or tough, referring to the twigs. Betula lenta has a smooth, dark reddish-brown to black bark when young with large horizontal lenticels. As the bark matures, it turns nearly black with a plate-like effect.

The leaves are oval and pale green in spring / summer, turning superb shades of rich yellow in the autumn time.

Supplied Size: 3L containers (80 - 100 cm tall)

Features

• Position: Full sun.
• Soil: Any fertile soil. Betula lenta is tolerant of dry soil conditions.
• Hardiness: Hardy.
• Rate of Growth: Moderate to vigorous.
• Habit: Medium sized, branching tree.
  • Height: 15 m (50 ft)
  • Spread: 10 m (32 ft)
• Notes: For best effect, the bark should be scrubbed gently with a hand brush and water once a year. This removes any green algae or grime and helps to restore the colour.