Betula nigra

River Birch

Tips for Homeowners:

Best to trim in summer after sap is done running.  It can be trained to have a higher canopy, where exfoliating bark is more visible.

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River birch is a native tree that has multiple seasons of interest and establishes easily.

  • Prized for exfoliating bark
  • Yellow fall foliage
  • Resistant to bronze birch borer

A good shade tree for large yards or is great for naturalizing in moist soils.  Best in eastern and central Kansas.

Height: 40-70 ft
Spread: 40-60 cm
Zone: 4-9
Color: Green, Yellow

Interesting Notes about River Birch:

River Birch is popular for its interesting bark and tolerance to wet conditions, but most of all it is resistant to the birch borer.  It prefers moist soils with an acidic pH and can tolerate drought especially if roots are shaded.  This is a fast-growing tree, establishes easy and is available as a single-stem or in multiples.


Characteristics & Attributes

Attributes:

  • Mass Planting
  • Fall Color
  • Specimen
  • Great Foliage
  • Drought Tolerant
  • Low Maintenance
  • Fast Growing
  • Naturalizing

Foliage Color:

  • Green
  • Yellow

Exposure:

  • Full Sun
  • Partial Sun

Critter Resistance:

  • Deer Resistant

Season of Interest (Foliage):

  • Fall

Soil Moisture:

  • Moist, Well-Drained
  • Average Water