This tough, diminutive tree can easily be overlooked, hidden among Common Heather (Calluna vulgaris), European Blueberry or Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus) and Cowberry or Lingonberry (Vaccinium vitis-idaea) in the uplands.

A circumpolar distribution, including North America, northern Asia, Greenland, Iceland and northern Europe. Native to Britain, at its extreme southerly range, especially the very few places it grows in northern England, where it is critically endangered. Absent from Ireland.

Monoecious. Wind-pollinated. Wind- and water-dispersed. In Britain, hybridises with Downy Birch (p. xxx).

In Britain usually confined to deep peat on blanket bogs and rocky crevices, only because grazing limits it elsewhere. Maximum height 1m and prostrate. Twigs stiff, dull brown, finely downy, with many resin glands. Leaves tiny (2cm), rounded, with regular rounded teeth. Male catkins 2cm, female catkins 3-4cm.

Removing grazing pressure would help conserve this species. Can reproduce by root suckers.

An important component of rare montane scrub.

Threatened by grazing by both Red Deer (Cervus elaphus) and livestock. Climate change is likely to severely impact its distribution in Britain.

Ecological restoration of upland grass ‘deserts’. Plants, including cultivars, are sold for ornamental use, especially alpine gardens and pots.