Bog Birch vs Dwarf Arctic Willow - TreeTime.ca

Bog Birch vs Dwarf Arctic Willow

Betula pumila

Salix purpurea Nana

NOT AVAILABLE THIS SEASON - MIGHT RETURN

NOT AVAILABLE THIS SEASON - MIGHT RETURN

Bog Birch
Dwarf Arctic Willow

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.

Dwarf Arctic Willow is a beautiful ornamental shrub that attracts butterflies. It grows into a low dense, rounded shrub with slender purple stems. The Dwarf Arctic Willow has bluish-green foliage throughout the season and stunning when planted as an artistic hedge. Cold hardy and juglone tolerant, this shrub will make a nice addition to your urban garden.

Bog Birch Quick Facts

Dwarf Arctic Willow Quick Facts

Zone: 2a
Zone: 4a
Height: 2.4 m (8 ft)
Height: 1.2 m (4 ft)
Spread: 1.2 m (4 ft)
Spread: 1.2 m (4 ft)
Light: full sun
Light: full sun
Moisture: normal, wet
Moisture: normal, wet
Growth rate: very fast
Growth rate: fast
Life span: short
Life span: medium
Suckering: none
Suckering: high


Fall colour: red-orange
Hybrid: no
Hybrid: no
Catkins: no
Catkins: yes


Native to: AB, BC, SK, MB, ON, QC, NS, NB, NL, YT, NT, NU, PE
Other Names: dwarf birch, low birch, scrub birch, swamp birch
Other Names: dwarf blue leaf arctic willow, dwarf purple osier, purple willow, salix purpurea gracilis