Ottawa Conservation District
16731 Ferris Street
Grand Haven, MI 49417
616.846.8770 ext. 5 phone
616.842.2820 fax
Hours: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
www.ottawacd.org
Map | Directions

Tree Descriptions

Canoe Birch (Betula papyrifera)

Height: 40-70’
Width: 20-35’
Growth Rate: fast
Soil: sand, clay, loam
Moisture: wet, moist
Shade Tolerance:  sun
Bloom Time: Apr-May
Flower Color: green
Uses: ornamental
Spacing: minimum 10’ x 10’
Habitat: Prefers wet to moist soil and needs full sun. Salt tolerant.
Notes: Fire dependent, does not tolerate harsh conditions.

Canoe birch is also known as white birch or paper birch due to the white, peeling bark. The bark was used by Native Americans for canoes and wigwam coverings. Yellow fall color. Tree is highly susceptible to the bronze birch borer, an insect pest whose larvae feed in the cambium just beneath the bark. Keeping trees healthy helps to prevent borer attacks. Occasionally browsed by deer.