Betula Pendula

Birch

Botanical Name: Betula Pendula

The silver birch was  regarded as a symbol of spring - a tree of life and fertility. Folklore has honored it as a protector against demons, and the trees leaves, bark and sap have long been used to fight illness such as bladder infections, kidney stones, eczema and rheumatism.

Plant Facts: A member of the Betulaceae, or birch, family. It grows to a height of 100 feet and is recognized by its grayish-white, peeling bark and dark cracks at the base. The bark and leaves have an organic, bitter taste and act as an astringent.