Dwarf Birch

Betula nana

Physical Characteristics

Betula nana is a deciduous Shrub growing to 0.3 m (1ft) by 0.5 m (1ft 8in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 2 and is not frost tender. It is in flower in May, and the seeds ripen in July. 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 and nutritionally poor soils. 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. The plant can tolerates strong winds but not maritime exposure.

Distribution

Arctic and northern Europe, including Britain, east to Siberia.

Habitats

Ground Cover;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Flowers Leaves Edible Uses: Condiment Young leaves and catkins - raw[172]. The buds and twigs are used as a flavouring in stews[172].

Medicinal Uses

Antirheumatic Antiseborrheic Astringent Lithontripic Miscellany Salve Sedative Stomachic The bark is antirheumatic, astringent, lithontripic, salve and sedative[172]. Moxa is prepared from the plant and is regarded as an effective remedy in all painful diseases[4]. No more details are given, but it is likely that the moxa is prepared from yellow fungous excretions of the wood, since the same report gives this description when talking about other members of the genus[K]. A compound decoction of the leaves has been used in the treatment of stomach ache and intestinal discomfort[257].

Known Hazards

None known