About

Betula 'Fetisowii' is a hybrid tree that grows slowly and loses its leaves in winter. It features a trunk and branches covered in peeling creamy-white bark, while its ovate leaves start as glossy green in spring, transitioning to yellow hues in fall. This variety is well-suited for compact gardens, as it has a more slender crown compared to other birch types, potentially reaching a height of approximately 6 meters under optimal conditions. It adapts to various soil types, including wet conditions, but thrives best in acidic soils to reach its full potential.

About the genus

Betula comprises both deciduous trees and shrubs, known for their vibrant autumn foliage and distinctive bark that can be white, pink, or brown and peeling. In spring, male and female catkins emerge separately, preceding or coinciding with leaf growth.

Growing conditions

Sunlight
Full sun
Soil type
Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained
Aspect
East-facing, South-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness
H7

Plant details

Plant type
Trees
Habit
Bushy
Foliage
Deciduous
Height
4-8 metres
Spread
2.5-4 metres
Time to full height
5-10 years
Suggested uses
Architectural, Cottage and informal garden

Care notes

Cultivation
Will grow in a wide range of situations, but best growth rate and habit will be achieved once established if planted in slightly more acidic soil in full sun
Pruning
Requires little pruning, pruning group 1
Propagation
Propagate by grafting
Pest resistance
May be susceptible to birch borers, leaf-mining sawflies and aphids
Disease resistance
May be susceptible to honey fungus, a tree rust and powdery mildews