Betula 'Royal Frost'
purple birch
When grown in a sunny spot, the foliage of this relatively new birch is a rich plum-purple, and this creates a very dramatic effect when teamed with the silvery stems, which develop as the tree matures.
If grown in shadier conditions, the foliage turns a softer hue, with underlying green tints coming through, but in the autumn, they will all turn butter yellow before being shed. Its bold colouring will create an eyecatching contrast against a sea of green, but this handsome tree will also make a fine stand-alone specimen.
If grown in shadier conditions, the foliage turns a softer hue, with underlying green tints coming through, but in the autumn, they will all turn butter yellow before being shed. Its bold colouring will create an eyecatching contrast against a sea of green, but this handsome tree will also make a fine stand-alone specimen.
How to care for Betula Royal Frost:
When planting, add some soil conditioner (well-rotted compost) to the planting hole and some mycorrhizal fungi to aid root establishment.
Ensure the top of the plant's compost is flush with the level of the surrounding soil and the collar of the tree is above ground level.
Support taller specimens either with a bamboo cane and or stake during establishment. Water generously around the base of the plant.
Birches need little pruning, but you may want to remove any diseased or crossing branches. It is essential that any pruning work is carried out between late summer to mid winter as the sap will 'bleed' heavily at other times.
Ensure the top of the plant's compost is flush with the level of the surrounding soil and the collar of the tree is above ground level.
Support taller specimens either with a bamboo cane and or stake during establishment. Water generously around the base of the plant.
Birches need little pruning, but you may want to remove any diseased or crossing branches. It is essential that any pruning work is carried out between late summer to mid winter as the sap will 'bleed' heavily at other times.
Eventual height:
12m
Eventual spread:
10m
Position:
Full sun / light shade
Rate of growth:
Fast-growing
Soil:
Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil
Hardiness:
Fully hardy
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This tree is deciduous so it will lose all its leaves in autumn, then fresh new foliage appears again each spring.
12 litre pot | 1.6m tall
£139.99
available to order from autumn
Unavailable
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