Betula albosinensis ‘Fascination’ | Chinese Red Birch
Native to western China, the Betula albosinensis 'Fascination', is a cultivar of the Betula albosinensis. This is an elegant tree with ascending branches and a uniform shape. As the tree matures its bark becomes a brilliant white, and its distinguishing feature is that the bark peels back to reveal layers of orange, cinnamon and pink. Triangular leaves with serrated edges are the biggest and darkest of all the Birches, providing a dense foliage perfect for screening and dappled shade. Long, yellow-brown catkins appear in April, hang in clusters like lamb's tails and grow up to 15cm long. The Betula albosinensis 'Fascination' is a hardy tree that will tolerate most soil types including clay and chalk, although it doesn't like to be water-logged. This tree is a good alternative to the Betula utilis 'Jacquemontii', with its stunning bark and interesting features. Planted in a sunny location the Betula albosinensis 'Fascination' will make a perfect specimen tree for any planting scheme.
