21. Himalayan Birch

Common Name - Himalayan Birch

Latin Name - Betula utilis ‘Jacquemontii’

Height - 18 Metres                 Spread – 4 Metres

This tree is a native of the Western-Himalayan and makes a showy medium sized tree with ascending branches of oval dark green foliage, which, turn yellow in autumn. The tree is known for the whiteness of its trunk and the peeling flaking bark of its branches.

The Latin translation of the utilis means ‘Useful’, and this refers to its many uses. The white paper-like bark was once used in ancient times in India for writing scriptures and texts. Although used primarily in this country for landscaping in its native setting, the tree makes good firewood and as a consequence, has led to loss of essential habitat. The bark is also widely used for packaging butter, in roof construction, making umbrella covers and some form of band aids. Likewise the foliage is also beneficial as a ‘fodder’ or food source for livestock.