Scrub Birch (Betula glandulosa)

Family: Betulaceae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

Betula glandulosa is a deciduous Shrub growing to 2 m (6ft 7in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 1 and is not frost tender. The species is monoecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but both sexes can be found on the same plant) and is pollinated by Wind. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in heavy clay and nutritionally poor soils.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves, Flowers

Harvest Seasons: Spring, Early Summer

Flavor & Culinary Uses

flavouring in stews. — Young leaves and catkins - raw.; The buds and twigs are used as a flavouring in stews.

Habitat & North American Range

Streambanks, marsh margins, lakes and bogs, also found on alpine slopes. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)