Birch Betula 'Fascination'
ABOUT
Betula 'Fascination', commonly known as the Fascination Birch, is a standout plant known for its attractive features. This deciduous tree is admired for its distinctive bark that peels and flakes in an appealing manner. The bark usually exhibits hues of white and cream, sometimes with a tinge of salmon or pink, adding an enticing visual texture to the landscape. The leaves of the Fascination Birch are another point of interest. They are typically diamond-shaped to triangular and possess a sharp, pointed tip. The foliage has a bright green color that transforms into a brilliant display of yellows and golds during the fall season, providing a striking contrast against the lighter-colored bark. In spring, the tree produces long, dangly catkins that add to its ornamental value. These catkins hang gracefully from the branches, swaying in the breeze and drawing the eye. The overall growth habit of this birch is more upright and pyramidal, creating a sense of verticality and elegance in its silhouette. Overall, the Fascination Birch is cherished for its year-round visual appeal, from its uniquely patterned bark and lovely seasonal leaf colors to its charming catkins. The combination of these features makes it a desirable addition to gardens and landscapes, particularly valued for its aesthetic contribution rather than its size.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Betulaceae
Synonyms
Fascination Birch
Common names
Betula 'Fascination'
ToxicityTo humans
The Betula 'Fascination', commonly known as birch, is generally not considered toxic to humans. However, some individuals may experience an allergic reaction to birch pollen or have irritation from handling the leaves or bark. Ingesting any part of the birch tree is not typically associated with poisoning in humans, thus poisoning symptoms are not commonly reported or documented. However, as with any plant, it is possible for someone to have a unique reaction, so caution should be taken.
To pets
The birch tree, the most common common name is birch, is not known to be toxic to pets. Dogs, cats, and other domestic animals can usually come into contact with birch trees without any risk of poisoning. There is no well-documented evidence of birch causing poisoning in pets and thus no specific symptoms of poisoning are typically observed. As with any plant consumption by pets, ingestion in large quantities may cause mild stomach upset, but birch is not known for having severe toxic consequences.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Height
40 feet (12 meters)
Spread
20 feet (6 meters)
Plant type
Tree
Hardiness zones
Varies
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Betula 'Fascination', or Birch, adds ornamental value to the landscape with its attractive bark and graceful foliage.
- Seasonal Interest: This birch variety offers year-round interest with its peeling bark, catkins in spring, and yellow autumn foliage.
- Wildlife Habitat: It provides shelter and food for birds and beneficial insects.
- Shade Provider: The birch tree creates a canopy that offers shade in garden spaces and reduces heat in urban environments.
- Erosion Control: The tree's root system helps stabilize soil and prevent erosion on slopes or in areas with loose ground.
- Cold Hardy: Birch trees, including 'Fascination', are generally tolerant of cold temperatures, making them suitable for many temperate climates.
- Adaptable Growth: Birch trees can adapt to a variety of soil conditions, although they prefer moist, well-drained soils.
- Low Maintenance: Once established, Birch trees require minimal care apart from occasional watering and pruning.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- The wood of the Betula 'Fascination', commonly known as the birch tree, can be used in the production of furniture due to its fine grain and attractive pattern.
- Due to its high flammability, birch wood is excellent for use as kindling in fire starting.
- Birch bark can be crafted into traditional containers, baskets, and canoes by those skilled in indigenous crafting techniques.
- The sap can be tapped from birch trees and fermented to produce a wine-like alcoholic beverage unique to various cultures.
- The paper-like bark of the birch tree can be used in crafts and as a natural wrapping material for gifts.
- Birch twigs can be bundled together to make traditional brooms known as "besom brooms" in some European countries.
- The tree’s striking appearance, with its peeling bark and graceful branches, makes it a popular subject for photographers and painters capturing natural landscapes.
- Birch wood is often chosen for making musical instruments such as drums and flutes due to its resonance and tonal qualities.
- Slices of birch wood can be used as beautiful, natural coasters or as bases for rustic candle holders.
- Landscapers utilize birch trees like Betula 'Fascination' for erosion control because their root systems are great at holding soil together on slopes.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Birch tree is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Birch tree is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Growth and Renewal: The birch tree, as a genus, is often associated with growth and renewal because it is one of the first trees to leaf out in spring, symbolizing new beginnings and rejuvenation.
- Flexibility and Adaptability: Birch trees are known for their flexibility and ability to adapt to various conditions, which can be translated into the human qualities of being adaptable and resilient in the face of change.
- Purification: Many cultures believe birch trees have purifying qualities, historically using their branches in rituals to ward off evil and promote the purification of spaces and spirits.
- Protection: Birches have been considered guardian trees, providing protection due to their resilience and longevity. They are thought to shelter one from negative energies.
- Youth and Innocence: The bright, white bark of many birch species can symbolize youth and innocence, reflecting the tree's association with new beginnings and the pure potential of youth.
- Beauty and Grace: With their elegant trunks and delicate foliage, birch trees often embody beauty and grace, encouraging an appreciation for the more refined and gentle aspects of nature.
WaterWater the Birch 'Fascination' deeply at planting and two to three times per week for the first few months to help establish roots. Once established, this birch typically needs watering once a week during dry periods, receiving about 1-2 gallons of water each time. During hot spells or prolonged drought, increase watering to twice a week. In well-drained soil, ensure the water penetrates the ground deeply to encourage deep root growth. Adjust the amount and frequency during the fall to accommodate for natural rainfall and reduce watering as the tree goes dormant in winter.
LightBirch 'Fascination' thrives in full sun to partial shade. Ideally, plant it in a location where it can receive at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Avoid deep shade as it can lead to poor growth and a less vigorous tree. Birch trees typically perform well in spots that offer morning sunlight and dappled afternoon shade, especially in areas with hot summers.
TemperatureBirch 'Fascination' can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, generally between -20 degrees Fahrenheit to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The ideal temperature for promoting growth is between 50 degrees Fahrenheit and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Young trees are more susceptible to temperature extremes, so providing some protection from intense cold and heat when the tree is newly planted can help ensure healthy development.
PruningBirch 'Fascination' should be pruned to remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches, as well as to maintain a desirable shape. The best time to prune is late fall to early spring when the tree is dormant and the leaves have fallen, providing better visibility of the tree’s structure. Prune sparingly, as birches do not heal as easily from large cuts, and avoid pruning in late spring to early summer when the sap flow is high.
CleaningNot needed
SoilFor Birch 'Fascination', a well-draining soil mix that is rich in organic matter is ideal. Incorporate peat or compost to improve soil structure. The pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, between 5.5 and 7.0, which most closely mimics its natural woodland habitat conditions.
RepottingBirch trees, including 'Fascination', are not commonly repotted as they are typically grown outdoors. They can be planted in the landscape and moved to larger sites as needed, but they don't require frequent repotting.
Humidity & MistingBirch 'Fascination' prefers moderate to high humidity levels, similar to its natural forest environment. However, as an outdoor plant, it's usually adaptable to the ambient humidity of its growing location.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Birch 'Fascination' in bright, indirect light indoors.
Outdoor
Plant Birch 'Fascination' in well-drained soil with full sun.
Hardiness zone
2-7 USDA
Life cycleBetula 'Fascination', commonly known as birch, begins life as a seed typically dispersed by wind due to its light, winged structure. Upon landing in suitable soil, the seed germinates and a seedling emerges, growing rapidly in favorable conditions with plenty of sunlight and moisture. The sapling stage follows, characterized by the development of a slender trunk and the distinctive peeling bark. As the tree matures, it develops a characteristic canopy with elongated, serrated leaves and in spring, produces catkins which contain the reproductive parts of the plant. Birch trees are monoecious, meaning they bear both male and female flowers on the same tree; after pollination by wind, seeds are produced to complete the cycle. In optimal conditions, the birch tree can live for several decades before eventually dying, at which point it decomposes and returns nutrients to the soil, supporting new life.
PropogationPropogation time
Early Spring
Propogation: Betula 'Fascination', more commonly known as Birch, is most effectively propagated using the method of softwood cuttings, generally undertaken in late spring or early summer when the tree's new growth is still flexible but slightly matured. To propagate using this method, take a cutting of about 4 to 6 inches (approximately 10 to 15 centimeters) from a healthy branch, making sure it includes at least two sets of leaves. The cut should be made just below a node, where the concentration of growth hormones is highest. Remove the leaves from the lower half of the cutting to prevent excess moisture loss and dip the cut end into a rooting hormone to encourage root development. Plant the cutting in a well-draining soil mix, ensuring that the nodes where the leaves were removed are buried. The cutting should then be kept in a humid environment with indirect sunlight until roots have developed, usually a few weeks, after which it can be transplanted into a more permanent location.
