Betula pendula is a native deciduous tree, and can be either a multi-stem or single trunk tree. It has a soft, gentle weeping habit with arching branches. Its diamond-shaped fresh green leaves turn a delicate yellow in the autumn. Betula pendula has a maximum height of between 7-12m, so does require plenty of space to grow. It can tolerate most soils, but does not like coastal or dry positions. Betula pendula has attractive, creamy-white peeling bark, which becomes marked with dark rugged cracks at the base with age. Yellow-brown catkins are produced in the spring.