Kenai Birch (Betula kenaica)

Family: Betulaceae | Edibility: Edible (3/5)

Betula kenaica is a deciduous Tree growing to 12 m (39ft 4in) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 2. 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, Sap/Syrup, Bark/Inner Bark

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Spring, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

flavouring in stews. — Young leaves and catkins - raw.; The buds and twigs are used as a flavouring in stews.; Inner bark - raw or cooked.; Inner bark can be dried and ground into a powder and then used as a thickener in soups etc or added to flour when making bread, biscuits etc.

Habitat & North American Range

Grows along the coast. Rocky slopes in the subalpine zone from sea level to 300 metres. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)