Betula utilis jacquemontii Silver Shadow

  • Height 10 years: 3m-5m / 10ft-16ft
  • Growth habit: Upright-spreading
  • Bark: White

'Silver Shadow' is perhaps the best-known representative of the species Betula utilis jacquemontii, the Himalayan birch, and one of the loveliest of birch trees.

'Silver Shadow' is one of the earliest commercial varieties of the Himalayan birch sub-species Betula utilis jacquemontii. The original tree came from a collection in Edinburgh and was propagated by the Hillier Nursery of Hampshire. Another variety of this species that was also named at Hillier Nursery, Jermyns, is very similar.

Silver Shadow trees for sale

Item
Height in 10 years
Price inc. VAT
Quantity
2-year Silver Shadow tree - in a 12L pot
4m-7m tall after 10 years
£49.95
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What will it look like?

Illustrative example of a pot-grown tree of this variety as supplied. (Approx. girth: 6/8). Trees should reach their mature height after about 10 or more years.

Betula Grayswood Ghost himalayan birch tree


Leaves may not be present during winter, and we may prune some shoots to fit the delivery carton. Size may vary during the season and between batches. The container (if supplied) is only used for transporting the tree, which should then be planted out in the garden or in a much larger patio planter (not all species are suitable for patio planting).

How to grow

'Silver Shadow' does best in full sun in soils which are slightly acidic.

Silver Shadow characteristics

Growing

  • Attractive features: Attractive tree / plant Attractive bark Attractive foliage Winter colour
  • Height 10 years: 3m-5m / 10ft-16ft
  • Growth habit: Upright-spreading
  • Growth rate: Average
  • Vigour: Average vigour
  • Site conditions: Occasional flooding Occasional drought
  • Sunlight: Prefers full sun
  • Useful for: Specimen planting
  • Hardiness rating (RHS): H6 (to -20C)
  • Pruning: Do not prune
  • Gardening skill: Suitable for beginners

Identification

  • Country of origin: United Kingdom
  • Flowering month: February
  • Leaf colour: Green
  • Leaf colour - young: Green
  • Annual cycle: Deciduous
  • Awards: RHS Award of Garden Merit
  • Bark: White

Similar varieties

  • Betula utilis jacquemontii
    Jermyns
    Jermyns is a variety of the Himalayan birch, notable for its bright white bark and large catkins.