White Birch (Paper Birch) vs Red Alder - TreeTime.ca

White Birch (Paper Birch) vs Red Alder

Alnus rubra

Betula papyrifera

CUSTOM GROW

COMING SOON

(new stock expected: fall of 2025)

Red Alder
White Birch (Paper Birch)

Red Alder is a fast-growing deciduous tree native to western North America. Its fixes nitrogen, which enriches soils and supports the growth of surrounding plants. Ideal for sites with poor soil conditions, or areas disturbed by logging, construction or fire.
It provides shade in riparian areas, creating cover for fish. Its seeds and buds are eaten by birds and small mammals, while the foliage provides browse for wildlife. The catkins release clouds of pollen attracting bees and other insects.
The Red Alder gets its namesake from the rusty-red color the bark turns when bruised.

White Birch is a large, attractive deciduous tree. This fast-growing, cold hardy species has distinctive white papery bark that peels in layers, making it a beautiful ornamental or accent tree. White Birch also makes great firewood.

Red Alder Quick Facts

White Birch (Paper Birch) Quick Facts

Zone: 5b
Zone: 2a
Height: 15 m (50 ft)
Height: 18 m (60 ft)
Spread: 9 m (30 ft)
Spread: 11 m (35 ft)
Light: partial shade, full sun
Light: full sun
Moisture: normal, wet
Moisture: normal, wet
Growth rate: fast
Growth rate: fast
Life span: medium
Life span: long
Growth form: upright, rounded to conical
Spreading: seeds - medium, stump sprouting - medium
Suckering: none


Bark: smooth, grey
Bark: white, papery, peeling
Seeds: located within the catkins
Hybrid: no
Hybrid: no
Catkins: yes
Catkins: yes


Native to: BC
Native to: AB, BC, SK, MB, ON, QC, NS, NB, NL, YT, NT, PE
Other Names: oregon alder, pacific coast alder, western alder
Other Names: american white birch, canoe birch, paper birch