Taxonomy

Division:

Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants

Family:

Betulaceae

Genus:

Betula

Species:

Betula ×alpestris

USDA Symbol:

BEAL7

Growth Characteristics

Height:

1500 cm

Light Requirements:

Full Sun

Drought Tolerance:

Low

Bloom Months:

apr,may

Keystone Species Ranking

Caterpillar Keystone:

★★★★★ Butterfly & moth species supported by this genus (NWF)

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:

birds, small mammals

Fall Color:

yellow

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:

rocky, well-drained, nutrient-poor soil

pH:

4.5 - 6.5 (acidic to slightly acidic)

Drainage:

excellent drainage required

Moisture:

consistently moist

Notes:

often found in alpine and subalpine regions

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:

Cold/moist stratification required — 30–60 days

Germination Time:

14–30 days

Notes:

Seeds require cold stratification for 30-60 days to break dormancy; sow on moist surface and keep cool.