
Common Name: 'Royal Frost' Birch
Betula populifolia ‘Royal Frost’ — commonly called Royal FrostŪ Birch — is a striking ornamental birch prized for its deep purple foliage, bright white bark, and improved tolerance to bronze birch borer compared with many white-barked birches. It delivers dramatic color contrast through the growing season while maintaining the classic birch look. Key features Width / spread: 15–25 ft Height: 35–45 ft Bark: Bright white with dark lenticels Foliage: Deep purple to burgundy (best color in full sun) Form: Upright pyramidal to oval Life cycle: Deciduous tree Growing conditions Sun: Full sun (essential for best purple color) Soil: Well-drained; prefers moderately moist soils Water: Moderate; more tolerant of heat and drought than paper birch Hardiness: Zone Low: 4a Zone High: 7b Landscape use Specimen tree Street and boulevard plantings Campus and commercial landscapes Color-contrast plantings Four-season interest landscapes Notes Purple foliage provides season-long color contrast Cleaner bark and better pest resistance than paper birch Performs best in cooler climates; avoid hot, droughty sites Minimal pruning; prune only during dormancy if needed
| Plant Type: | Deciduous Tree |
| Width: | 15-25' |
| Height: | 35-45' |
| Fragrant: | No |
| Fruit | Yes |
| Growth Rate | Fast |
| Zone: | 4 - 7 |
| Deer Resistant: | Yes |
| Salt Tolerant: | No |
| Drought Tolerant: | No |
| Exposure: | Full Sun, Partial Shade |
| Bloom Time: | Spring, Summer |
| Bark Type: | Exfoliating |
| Landscape/Use: | Provide Shade, Specimen |
| Shape: | Clump, Upright |
| Soil Type | Clay, Loamy, Wet Area |
| Leaf Color: | Maroon |
| Fall Color: | Orange, Yellow |