Betula utilis subsp. albosinensis ‘China Ruby’
Birch
A superb tree with a lovely pinkish grey and darker grey bark mixture. Very heavy show of catkins. Read more
Attributes
- Deciduous
- Tree shape: Standard
- Size: Medium
- Leaf colour: Green
- Pruning not necessary
- Attractive bark
- Drought tolerant
- Chalk tolerant
- Clay tolerant
- Prefers acid soil
- Wet tolerant
- Autumn colour
- Award-winning
Description: Betula albosinensis 'China Ruby', also known as the Chinese Red Birch is a superb tree with good hardiness. The lovely, unique bark is pinkish grey and profound shades of chestnut rust. Very heavy show of catkins in the spring amongst the green serrated foliage. This is even more pronounced when planted alongside other white barked varieties such as Jacquemontii or Snow Queen.
History: Named by Brian Humphrey in 1994 from the Hillier clone of Betula utilis subsp. albosensis var. septentrionalis at Hillier's West Hill Nursery. The name was originally given in error by Stone Lane Gardens to the 'China Rose' culitvar.
Betula Growing Tips: They will succeed on most soils with certain species happy even in wet sites. Although tolerant of chalk soils they will not reach a maximum size in these conditions. Best planted in a full sun position.
Height and Spread (after 10 years) : 6m x 4m