Betula populifola x 'Royal Frost'

'Royal Frost' Birch

Betula populifolia ‘Royal Frost’ — commonly called Royal Frost® Birch — is a striking ornamental birch prized for its deep purple foliage, bright white bark, and improved tolerance to bronze birch borer compared with many white-barked birches. It delivers dramatic color contrast through the growing season while maintaining the classic birch look.

Key features
Width / spread: 15–25 ft
Height: 35–45 ft
Bark: Bright white with dark lenticels
Foliage: Deep purple to burgundy (best color in full sun)
Form: Upright pyramidal to oval
Life cycle: Deciduous tree

Growing conditions
Sun: Full sun (essential for best purple color)
Soil: Well-drained; prefers moderately moist soils
Water: Moderate; more tolerant of heat and drought than paper birch
Hardiness:



Zone Low: 4a



Zone High: 7b



Landscape use
Specimen tree
Street and boulevard plantings
Campus and commercial landscapes
Color-contrast plantings
Four-season interest landscapes

Notes
Purple foliage provides season-long color contrast
Cleaner bark and better pest resistance than paper birch
Performs best in cooler climates; avoid hot, droughty sites
Minimal pruning; prune only during dormancy if needed

Plant type

Deciduous Tree

Height

35-45'

Width

15-25'

Hardiness zones

4–7

Sunlight

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Fast

Bloom time

Spring, Summer

Leaf color

Maroon

Fall color

Orange, Yellow

Soil

Clay, Loamy, Wet Area

Landscape use

Provide Shade, Specimen

Shape

Clump, Upright

Bark

Exfoliating

Fruit

Yes

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No