Species of the genus Betula are a difficult group taxonomically because of their high vegetative variability and frequent hybridization. Many species have been founded on only slight differences and many of these have subsequently been reduced to synonymy. Many morphologic and cytologic studies have attempted to deal with variation within the genus or its subgroups. Species of Betula form a polyploid series, with chromosome numbers of 2 n = 28, , , , and 112, plus additional numbers in some hybrids.

Common Name:

General Information

Betula costata is a deciduous tree that usually grows up to 20 metres tall, though it sometimes reaches 30 metres[, ].
The tree is harvested from the wild for local use of its wood.
There are no major threats reported for this species. The plant is classified as 'Least Concern' in the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species(2013)[].

Known Hazards

None known

Botanical References

,

Range

E. Asia - Russian Far East, northern China, Korea

Habitat

Mixed forests of coniferous and broad-leaved trees; at elevations from 600 - 2,500 metres[].

Properties

Conservation Status	Least Concern
Other Uses Rating
Habit	Deciduous Tree
Height	18.00 m
Pollinators	Wind
Cultivation Status	Wild

Cultivation Details

Succeeds in a well-drained loamy soil in a sunny, sheltered position[, ]. This species appears to be drought sensitive, it needs deep, rich and moist soils[].
Hybridizes freely with several other members of this genus[, ].
Species in this genus are notably susceptible to honey fungus[].

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal

None known

Other Uses

The wood is straight grained, coarse textured, and cracks easily; it is used for making carrying poles[].
The wood is used for fuel and for making charcoal[].

Propagation

Seed - best sown as soon as it is ripe in a light position in a cold frame[, , , ]. Only just cover the seed and place the pot in a sunny position[, , ]. Spring sown seed should be surface sown in a sunny position in a cold frame[, ]. If the germination is poor, raising the temperature by covering the seed with glass can help[]. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in a cold frame for at least their first winter. Plant them out into their permanent positions in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts.
If you have sufficient seed, it can be sown in an outdoor seedbed, either as soon as it is ripe or in the early spring - do not cover the spring sown seed. Grow the plants on in the seedbed for 2 years before planting them out into their permanent positions in the winter[, , , ].