Bog Birch, Dwarf Birch, Smooth Dwarf, Birch, Swamp Birch
Betula nana
Family: Betulaceae
What it is like
A low shrub. It loses its leaves during the year. It grows 0.6 m high and spread 1.2 m wide. It forms thickets. The leaves are small. They are 18 mm long. They are kidney shaped or rounded. They are thick textured. The leaves are dark green and have fine teeth. The leaves turn yellow and red in autumn. The flower catkins are 12 mm long.
There are about 60 Betula species. They grow in cool north temperate climates.
Where it is found
Cold temperate. It grows above the Arctic circle. It grows in the tundra and in bogs and on low hills. It is resistant to frost but damaged by drought. It suits hardiness zones 2-7.
Countries/locations it is found in
Arctic, Australia, Britain, Canada, Europe (country/location of origin), Greenland, Iceland, North America, Norway, Scandinavia, Siberia, USA
How it is used for food
The leaves and twigs are used for tea drinks.
Edible parts
Flowers, leaves - tea
How it is grown
Plants are grown from seed.
Its other names
Local names
Dvergbjork