River Birch - 16 ft

River Birch (Betula nigra) 

Description:
River Birch (Betula nigra) is a fast-growing, deciduous shade tree celebrated for its striking, peeling bark and adaptability to a wide range of soils. Its unique bark exfoliates in layers of cinnamon, salmon, tan, and brown, providing year-round visual interest—even in winter. River Birch’s lush, serrated green leaves create a dense canopy for excellent summer shade, turning a brilliant golden-yellow in fall. Exceptionally hardy and disease-resistant, this native tree thrives in wet or poorly drained soils but is also drought tolerant once established. Perfect for landscapes, privacy screens, erosion control, or as a specimen tree, River Birch brings beauty and resilience to any garden.

Plant Characteristics:

• Botanical Name: Betula nigra

• Common Name: River Birch

• Type: Deciduous shade tree

• Mature Height: 40–70 feet

• Mature Spread: 30–50 feet

• Growth Habit: Upright, pyramidal when young, becoming rounded with age

• Foliage: Forest green, serrated; golden-yellow in fall

• Bark: Exfoliating in shades of cinnamon, salmon, and brown

• Light Requirements: Full sun to part shade (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight)

• Soil: Prefers moist, acidic, well-drained soil; tolerates wet, clay, and sandy soils

• Water Needs: Moderate to high; water deeply, especially during establishment and dry periods

• Hardiness Zones: USDA 3–9

• Maintenance: Low; prune in late winter to remove damaged or crossing branches

• Resistances: Highly disease resistant, pest resistant, tolerant of wet and dry soils

• Wildlife: Attracts birds and pollinators; supports beneficial insects

• Uses: Shade tree, specimen, privacy screen, erosion control, rain garden, naturalized areas