About

Betula pendula subsp. mandshurica Dakota Pinnacle ('Fargo') is a substantial deciduous tree characterized by its broad, diamond-shaped leaves that exhibit a matte green hue. The tree's white bark peels away, revealing a darker, rough texture at the base as it matures. In the fall, the foliage transforms to a vibrant yellow.

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

Plant details

Plant type
Trees
Habit
Spreading branched
Foliage
Deciduous
Height
Higher than 12 metres
Spread
wider than 8 metres
Time to full height
20-50 years
Suggested uses
Architectural, Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens

Care notes

Cultivation
Grow in moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil, in full sun or light shade. See tree cultivation for further advice
Pruning
Pruning group 1
Propagation
Propagate by seed, softwood cuttings or 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