Indian Paper Birch, Whitebarked Himilayan Birch, Jacquemontii Birch

Betula utilis

Physical Characteristics

Betula utilis is a deciduous Tree growing to 20 m (65ft 7in) 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 October. 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. The plant can tolerates strong winds but not maritime exposure.

Distribution

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

Habitats

Woodland Garden Canopy; Secondary; Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade;

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal Uses

Antiseborrheic Antiseptic Carminative Urinary An infusion of the bark is antiseptic and carminative[240, 243, 272]. It has been used in the treatment of hysteria and jaundice[240, 243, 272]. It is applied as drops to the ears to rlieve earache[272]. A paste made from the bark is used as a poultice on cuts, wounds and burns[272]. The German Commission E Monographs, a therapeutic guide to herbal medicine, approve Betula species for infections of the urinary tract, kidney and bladder stones, rheumatism (see [302] for critics of commission E).

Known Hazards

The aromatic and aliphatic hydrocarbons in birch tar are irritating to the skin. Do not use in patients with oedema or with poor kidney or heart functions [301]