Downy Birch Betula pubescens Betulaceae Height to 25m<br /> Elegant tree. Bark Reddish in young trees; thick and grey with age, does not break into rectangular plates at base. Branches Denser and more untidy than Silver Birch, mostly erect, never pendulous. Twigs with downy white hairs in spring. Leaves Rounded at base, evenly toothed; hairy petiole. Reproductive parts Catkins similar to Silver Birch but seeds have smaller wings. Status Commonest in west and north.
{}