Betula alba (Betula pendula), the white or European birch, is a deciduous tree of the Betulaceae family, native to Europe and neighbouring parts of Asia.

Characteristics
A medium sized tree reaching 15-25 m, with a light, open, rounded crown. The slender trunk carries the classic smooth white bark, peeling in fine horizontal strips and marked with dark fissures at the base on older trees. The leaves are oval to triangular with toothed margins, bright green in summer, turning golden yellow before falling. Male and female catkins are borne on the same tree in spring and are wind pollinated.

Growing and care
Sun and fresh, well drained, preferably slightly acid soil; very hardy and fast growing, but shallow rooted and sensitive to prolonged drought and compacted ground. Prune only in late summer, never in spring when the sap rises.

Uses
A specimen tree for its white bark, used singly or in groups of three, in woodland style gardens, along drives and in light screens where a slender, airy tree is needed.