Quick answer: Paper birch (Betula papyrifera) is native to 28 states. What's commonly sold under this name is the true wild species. It's typically seed, verified 15 Sep 2026.
Photo: InAweofGod'sCreation, Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.0)
Where it's native
Listed in the directory as native to these states. Click a state for its full native-plant guide.
Growing conditions
From the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center Native Plant Database.
| Sun | Sun, Part Shade, Shade |
|---|---|
| Water | High water, Moist |
| Soil | Moist, fertile, cool soils |
| Bloom | Bloom Apr |
| Height | 50-75 ft tall |
| Wildlife value | Attracts birds/butterflies, larval host for Eastern Tiger Swallowtail and Luna moth, used by songbirds/ground birds/mammals |
Buying it
Sold true to the wild species as of the last check (15 Sep 2026), via Amazon.
Sold as: Seed via Amazon · listing verified 15 Sep 2026
See where to buy →Quick answers about Paper birch
Where is Paper birch native?
Paper birch (Betula papyrifera) is native to 28 states across the Northeast, Midwest, South and West. Check your state's page in this directory for the full list of plants native where you live.
When does Paper birch bloom?
Paper birch blooms Apr. Exact timing shifts a few weeks with latitude and elevation.
What growing conditions does Paper birch need?
Light: Sun, Part Shade, Shade. Water: High water, Moist. Soil: Moist, fertile, cool soils. Mature height: 50-75 ft tall.
Is Paper birch good for pollinators and wildlife?
Yes. Wildlife value: Attracts birds/butterflies, larval host for Eastern Tiger Swallowtail and Luna moth, used by songbirds/ground birds/mammals.
Is Paper birch deer-resistant or drought-tolerant?
Paper birch is tolerates shade.
Where can I buy real Paper birch seed or plants?
We found a listing sold as seed that names the true species, last checked 15 Sep 2026. Look for the scientific name Betula papyrifera on any listing.
Similar native plants
Native plants that share growing conditions or range with Paper birch.
- Quaking aspen Populus tremuloides
- Nannyberry Viburnum lentago
- Chokecherry Prunus virginiana
- Highbush cranberry Viburnum opulus var. americanum
- Green ash Fraxinus pennsylvanica
- Bur oak Quercus macrocarpa
Also listed under
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