River Birch
$10.00
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River Birch
$10.00
Betula nigra
River birch has exfoliating bark ranging from tan to creamy white to parchment white and dark green leaves that turn buttery yellow in autumn. Usually multi-trunked, river birches are often slightly leaning and forked. This birch is the most resistant to borers and leaf miners. It grows very quickly, and assumes a broadly oval habit. River birch is very adaptable to different soil types and conditions but prefers wet sites.
Bare root, 3-4'
Sourced from Michigan
Growing tips
- Will benefit a 3-4 inch layer of mulch and supplemental water in dry periods; River Birch is drought sensitive and does not like hot, dry summers.
- Tends to drop a lot of twigs; may be better suited for less manicured areas.
| Mature height (ft) | 30-70 |
| Mature spread (ft) | 30-60 |
| Sun preference | Full sun to part shade |
| Soil type preference | Sand, loam |
| Soil moisture preference | Moist to wet, well-drained |
| Zones | 4-9 |
| pH | Acidic |
| Wildlife benefit | Bird and small mammal habitat, attracts pollinators |
| Uses | Erosion control, rain garden, screening, ornamental |
| Resistance/tolernaces | Tolerates flooding, tolerates road salt, tolerates Black Walnut |
Resources
Betula nigra, Plant Database, Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, The University of Texas at Austin
River birch, The Morton Arboretum
Betula nigra, North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox, NC State Extension