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Betula populifola x 'Royal Frost'
Common Name: 'Royal Frost' Birch
Betula populifolia ‘Royal Frost’ — commonly called Royal Frost® 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: | Not verified |
| Fruit: | Yes |
| Growth Rate | Fast |
| Zone: | 4–7 |
| Deer Resistant: | Yes |
| Salt Tolerant: | Not verified |
| 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 |
