Betula Utilis Snow Queen Tree

The Snow Queen is a fast growing, medium size tree with a distinctive white bark that peels off in sheets, creating a wonderful ornamental effect. When first exposed, the peeling bark appears as a pale orange. The leaves are a deep green, creating a great contrast against the white trunk. The leaves have serrated edges and turn to deep shades of bronze and yellow in the autumn. In spring, the tree bursts with a display of vibrant golden catkins amongst the fresh green foliage. The Snow Queen is deciduous and will lose its leaves in winter. This is the season to fully appreciate the striking beauty of the stark, white graceful trunk and branches.

Although the Snow Birch looks delicate, it is fully hardy and well suited a range of conditions and climates. It prefers moist but well drained soil. Plant in an area of full sun or partial shade.

Unlike other Birch trees, the Snow Queen develops white bark rapidly on trees that are only three years old. If you are creating a new garden, you won’t have to wait years and years to get the stunning effect of these graceful trees.

This tree, also known as the Doorenbos, will become a statement piece in your garden. It grows tall and the branches do not droop, maintaining a pyramidal shape, making it ideal for smaller sized areas. In a larger area, plant in a close set of three for a lovely feature grouping. To create a delightful colour palette, plant your Snow Birch next to a Betula Purpurea. The rich purple foliage contrasts beautifully with the green leaves of the Snow Queen.