Betula alnoides

Physical Characteristics

Betula alnoides is a deciduous Tree growing to 40 m (131ft 3in) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8. It is in flower in April, and the seeds ripen in September. The species is monoecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but both sexes can be found on the same plant) and is pollinated by Wind. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in heavy clay soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

E. Asia - Himalayas to S.W. China.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Canopy; Secondary;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Inner bark Edible Uses: Inner bark - can be dried, then ground into a powder and added to flour for use in making bread, cakes etc[177]. Inner bark is generally only seen as a famine food, used when other forms of starch are not available or are in short supply[K].

Medicinal Uses

Antidote Antiseborrheic The plant has been used as an antidote in the treatment of snake bites[240, 243]. A decoction of the bark is used to treat dislocated bones[272].

Known Hazards

None known