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Description
Betula Utilis Subsp. Jacquemontii Grayswood Ghost, also known as Whitebarked Himalayan Birch, is a deciduous tree species that is native to the Himalayas. It is a popular ornamental tree due to its unique ghostly white bark, which peels to reveal a creamy orange-pink color. The bark is smooth and shiny, and the tree has a narrow, upright habit that makes it perfect for small gardens.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota || Kingdom | Plantae || Phylum | Spermatophyta || Class | Magnoliopsida || Order | Fagales || Family | Betulaceae || Genus | Betula || Species | Betula Utilis |
Appearance
Betula Utilis Subsp. Jacquemontii Grayswood Ghost can reach a height of 30 to 40 feet and a spread of 15 to 20 feet. The tree has a narrow, upright habit with a conical crown. The leaves are ovate, pointed and bright green, turning yellow in autumn. The flowers are small and greenish-yellow, appearing in early spring before the leaves.The most distinctive feature of this tree is its bark, which is white and peels to reveal a creamy orange-pink color. The bark remains white throughout the year, making it an attractive tree in all seasons.
Care Guide
Betula Utilis Subsp. Jacquemontii Grayswood Ghost is a low-maintenance tree that is easy to care for. Here are some care tips:- Water: The tree needs regular watering, especially during the first few years after planting. Make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.- Fertilization: Fertilize the tree in spring with a balanced fertilizer.- Soil: The tree prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic.- Sunlight: The tree prefers full sun to partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: The tree is hardy in zones 5 to 7.
Common Pests & Diseases
Betula Utilis Subsp. Jacquemontii Grayswood Ghost is generally healthy and resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to bronze birch borer and leaf miner. These pests can be controlled with insecticides. The tree may also be susceptible to Phytophthora root rot, which can be prevented by providing well-drained soil.
Habitat
Betula Utilis Subsp. Jacquemontii Grayswood Ghost is native to the Himalayas, where it grows in mountain forests and alpine meadows. The tree prefers cool, moist climates and can tolerate cold temperatures. It is often grown in gardens and parks for its ornamental value.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Betula Utilis Subsp. Jacquemontii Grayswood Ghost?
A: The tree needs regular watering, especially during the first few years after planting. Make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
Q: Is Betula Utilis Subsp. Jacquemontii Grayswood Ghost resistant to pests and diseases?
A: The tree is generally healthy and resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to bronze birch borer and leaf miner.
Q: What is the hardiness zone of Betula Utilis Subsp. Jacquemontii Grayswood Ghost?
A: The tree is hardy in zones 5 to 7.
Q: What is the most distinctive feature of Betula Utilis Subsp. Jacquemontii Grayswood Ghost?
A: The most distinctive feature of this tree is its bark, which is white and peels to reveal a creamy orange-pink color.
Related Plants
– Betula Pendula (Silver Birch)- Betula Nigra (River Birch)- Betula Lenta (Black Birch)- Betula Papyrifera (Paper Birch)
References
– Dirr, M.A. (2019). Dirr’s Encyclopedia of Trees and Shrubs. Timber Press.- Rushforth, K. (1999). Trees of Britain and Europe. HarperCollins Publishers.