Bog Birch vs Nannyberry - TreeTime.ca

Bog Birch vs Nannyberry

Betula pumila

Viburnum lentago

NOT AVAILABLE THIS SEASON - MIGHT RETURN

NOT AVAILABLE THIS SEASON - MIGHT RETURN

Bog Birch
Nannyberry

Bog Birch is a hardy, deciduous shrub native to North America. It thrives in wetlands, riparian zones, and boreal forests, and can be found as far north as the Arctic Circle—making it one of the few woody plants to grow in such extreme climates.

In Western Canada, it is especially common in moist lowlands, along streambanks, and in peatlands. Beyond its ecological role in stabilizing soils and supporting wildlife, Bog Birch is frequently used in reclamation and restoration projects due to its resilience and ability to establish quickly in disturbed or degraded landscapes.

Note: We use Bog Birch for Betula pumila. This species is also known by many other common names, including Dwarf Birch, Swamp Birch, and others. Please confirm the scientific name to ensure you are ordering the correct plant.

Nannyberry is a hardy shrub known for attracting wildlife. Its clusters of white flowers and tasty berries are suitable for bees, birds, and other animals.

Nannyberry is also used in urban yards and landscaping. This shrub makes a beautiful ornamental and is small enough to grow underneath power lines. Its berries can be eaten fresh or used in baking and preserves.

Makes a great hedge or privacy screen in an urban yard. Often has great red fall color to complement its spring flowers.

Bog Birch Quick Facts

Nannyberry Quick Facts

Zone: 2a
Zone: 2b
Height: 2.4 m (8 ft)
Height: 5 m (15 ft)
Spread: 1.2 m (4 ft)
Spread: 3 m (10 ft)
Light: full sun
Light: partial shade, full sun
Moisture: normal, wet
Moisture: any
Growth rate: very fast
Growth rate: medium
Life span: short
Life span: short
Suckering: none
Suckering: medium


Fall colour: red-orange
Bark: gray and scaly
Flowers: white
Berries: red to purple
Hybrid: no
Hybrid: no
Catkins: no
Catkins: no


Native to: AB, BC, SK, MB, ON, QC, NS, NB, NL, YT, NT, NU, PE
Native to: SK, MB, ON, QC, NB
Other Names: dwarf birch, low birch, scrub birch, swamp birch
Other Names: sheepberry, sweet viburnum