Betula utilis var. jacquemontii

Whitebarked Himalayan Birch

Betula utilis var. jacquemontii — commonly known as Himalayan Birch or Jacquemont Birch — is one of the most admired ornamental birches, prized for its brilliant, glowing white bark, elegant form, and strong winter presence. The bark peels lightly and brightens with age, often appearing almost luminous against snow or dark backgrounds.

Key features
Width / spread: 20–30 ft
Height: 40–50 ft (occasionally taller in ideal conditions)
Bark: Pure white to creamy white; lightly exfoliating
Foliage: Medium green; yellow fall color
Form: Upright oval to pyramidal; often grown multi-stem
Life cycle: Deciduous tree

Growing conditions
Sun: Full sun
Soil: Moist, well-drained; prefers cool soils
Water: Moderate; does not tolerate prolonged drought or heat
Hardiness:



Zone Low: 4a



Zone High: 7a



Landscape use
Specimen tree
Group plantings for bark effect
Woodland edges
Four-season interest landscapes
High-visibility winter plantings

Notes
Considered one of the whitest-barked birches available
Performs best in cooler climates with consistent moisture
Less heat tolerant than river birch
Susceptible to bronze birch borer in warm regions
Minimal pruning; prune only during dormancy

Plant type

Deciduous Tree

Height

40-50'

Width

20-30'

Hardiness zones

4–7

Sunlight

Full Sun

Growth rate

Moderate

Flower color

Brown

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Yellow

Soil

Clay, Moist well-drained, Normal, Wet Area

Landscape use

Provide Shade, Specimen

Shape

Clump, Pyramidal, Upright

Bark

Exfoliating

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No