Betula pendula

Silver birch (Betula pendula) is a native species prevalent across the island of Ireland. Birches are light-demanding pioneer species that are able to quickly regenerate in an area opened by felling or fire owing to their prolific seed production and rapid juvenile growth. Silver birch will grow on a range of sites but will only produce quality timber on those of low exposure and moderate to good soil quality. The species is highly shade intolerant and will only grow well as widely spaced and dominant trees.