Betula pendula (syn. Betula alba) 'KARACA'

The species of European white birch is a large tree growing over 20m tall in maturity. Its most significant feature is white bark, pealing off in thin layers. Its leaves are said to emerge only after the danger of all frosts. Its specific epithet pendula refers to weeping habit which is not entirely true. This birch has upright growth, only the ends of the branches are arching. There are plenty of varieties available in trade now varying in size, habit or leaf shape or colour.

Karaca is a Hungarian variety of white birch, a natural mutation discovered by Dr. László Orlóci. European patent No. 16702 was granted in 2006. It is a slow-growing variety with extremely delicate foliage. The leaves are deciduous, bright green, deeply incised like a lace. The branching is dense and makes an angle of about 70° with the terminal, but thanks to the arching ends of the branches the plant gains a graceful pendent appearance of a fine veil.

You can use it anywhere you like to soften the existing landscape because it will look beautiful in almost any garden style: prairie, Japanese, cottage, modern, urban etc. It can be pruned and trimmed in any way, ideally in late winter.

It likes moist soil but adapts to all soil types, when established it can even accept long, dry summers. Grow it in full sun or light shade only. Fully hardy to min. -45°C (USDA zone 2).

Last update 07-03-2023