Paper Birch

Witches besom (Taphrina spec.)

Witches besom are highly branched out sprout systems that emerge from proventitious or adventitious buds. They are caused by a sac fungi. In extreme cases, this can hinder the tree growth.

Diseases Paper Birch

Leaf necrosis (Asteroma microspermum)

Large light-brown spots on the leaves. Solitary outbreaks are not dangerous for the tree.

Canker (Nectria galligena)

Fungi that leads to the breaking off of bark. Affected twigs and branches should be removed and burned. If the trunk is affected, then an expert should be called to remove canker.

Birch true bug

They occur often in large amounts in birch trees. They are pesky, but not dangerous for the tree. A chemical treatment is controversial .

Wood excrescence

Cause is unknown.

Gall midge (Aceria rudis rudis)

Leaf deformation caused by a gall midge. Not dangerous for the tree.

Classification Paper Birch

Height: up to 30 m, multiple trunks

Leave: ovate, doubly serrated

Bloom: April - May, catkins

Fruit: winged nuts

Branches: reddish brown, hairy

Bark: bright white

Root: shallow root

Location: sun to half-shade

Soil: sandy to loamy, normal to very moist

ph-value: slightly acidic to basic