River birch. The river birch may be the plant solution for a problem spot with wet soil or where water tends to pool, as it likes wet Betula is Latin for birch and describes a genus of about 60 species of deciduous trees and shrubs found in many gardens and landscapes throughout the northern hemisphere. You may notice that some yards have a single tree birch tree while others have clumps or multiple birch trees. Both the male and female flowers are catkins. River birch should be planted in full sun in moist soils. Mar 22, 2024 · River birch trees often exhibit what is known as “leaf scorch” or premature leaf drop due to stress factors such as heat, drought, or certain diseases. The blades have narrow tips and measure 2” to 4” (5 – 10 cm) long with a heart-shaped base. Find out its growth rate, landscape use, problems, and cultivars. The tree is ideal for an acreage because of its beauty as well as the draw to wildlife such as deer and turkeys. The foliage is variegated and has cream or ivory edges. Aug 15, 2023 · River birch trees are a beautiful addition to any backyard, but they do require some maintenance in order to look their best. The river birch is the best choice of birch trees for hotter areas. Feb 8, 2024 · There are many varieties of birch trees – paper, gray, yellow, river, and white birch – though the paper birch is perhaps the most distinctive, with its curling white bark. It is commonly found in the Piedmont and Coastal Plain of the Mid-Atlantic Region from Pennsylvania to Virginia. Safford, John C. , this birch is unfazed by heat and humidity. Betula papyrifera, commonly known as the paper birch, is a deciduous tree that belongs to the family Betulaceae. S. If you want to grow this classic tree in your yard, collect and Betula papyrifera (paper birch, [5] also known as (American) white birch [5] and canoe birch [5]) is a short-lived species of birch native to northern North America. river birch. Focus on removing any branches that are rubbing together, broken, or diseased. River birch trees have no major pest problems. Written by MasterClass. Suitable for smaller spaces, better Aug 27, 2019 · River birch (Betula nigra): Sometimes called black birch, this species has a much darker trunk than the paper birch, but still has the characteristic flaky surface. Last Revised by: USDA NRCS National Plant Data Team. H. It is native to the Atlantic coastal states, southern states, the lower Midwest, eastern Great Plains, and lower Mississippi River valley. River Birches are well-suited for both full sun and partial shade, offering flexibility in garden design. Providing adequate water, especially during dry periods, and maintaining overall tree health can help minimize leaf scorch and ensure your river birch tree retains its beauty throughout the River birch is a native deciduous, upright, flowering tree with cinnamon-brown, exfoliating bark and yellow fall foliage that tends to drop off the tree early and quickly. Although river birch grows well in normal and dry soils, it thrives in wet environments. River birch trees typically have a canopy spread of 25 to 40 feet (7. Learn about its features, uses, and cultivation from Britannica's editors. Data Source. Find out its cultivars, care, and uses in the home landscape. Out of all the birches, the river birch seems to be the most adaptable and heat tolerant. Description River birch is a fast growing ornamental landscape tree noted for its exfoliating flaky bark in various mixed shades of cream, orange and lavender, nice fall color, and freedom from bronze birch borer damage. Find out about its characteristics, soil, water, and temperature needs, as well as common issues and cultivars. The river birch’s beautiful bark offers year-round beauty along with gorgeous foliage spring through autumn. Can the River Birch thrive in urban environments with air pollution? Jun 22, 2022 · River birch has bark that peels dramatically in layers to reveal reddish-brown underlayers over bright white inner bark. Salmon-cream to brownish at first, it exfoliates to reveal a creamy-white inner bark that can almost rival the European white birches. Its bark is extremely showy and peels off in attractive sheets of beige or creamy white, and the leaves are triangular. River Birch. It’s an attractive Growing and Caring for River Birch. When planting a River Birch tree, choose a location with moist, well-drained soil. Jun 7, 2021 · Home & Lifestyle Birch Tree Guide: How to Plant and Care for Birch Trees. It is hardy in U. The male catkins are hanging, yellow-brown, and much longer than the female catkins, which are upright on the branch, green with red stigmas, and scaled. org | Outreach or Educational Inquiries: outreach@moprairie. While these trees tolerate various soil types, they excel in soils with good drainage. L. It is a good choice in regions where bronze birch bore is a severe problem. Pruning in winter will cause the tree to "bleed" sap heavily. papyrifera), also called white birch, canoe birch, or silver birch, and the other five intergrading geographical varieties, western paper birch (B. Oct 10, 2023 · The River Birch’s peeling bark is a natural and characteristic feature. P. The wood of river birch is used for firewood, pallets, inexpensive furniture, and novelties. In warmer climates, such as Ohio and Iowa, river birch or Heritage river birch is often a better tree selection than any of the white-barked trees. ), mountain paper birch (B. Data Documentation. In the wild birch are pioneer trees, often living on the edges of the forest. Keep river birch well mulched to conserve soil moisture and minimize late summer leaf drop. The tree requires an acid soil, otherwise it becomes chlorotic. One of the most important aspects of caring for a river birch tree is pruning. These deer resistant trees have gained popularity due their unique bark and great yellow fall color. Department of Agriculture **plant hardiness zones 4 through 9a**. papyrifera var River birch is a great tree for any landscape setting. Curated and maintained by: USDA NRCS National Plant Data Team. A member of the Betulaceae (birch) family, it is the only native birch that does well in low elevations of the south. Betula nigra, also known as river birch, is a deciduous tree native to the Eastern United States. The species is valued for its relatively rapid growth, tolerance of wetness and some drought, unique curling bark, spreading limbs, and relative resistance to birch borer. River birch grows fast, and attains heights of 40 to 70 feet and diameters of 1 to 2 feet. River birch is an ornamental tree with dark bark and glossy leaves, native to the eastern US. Jan 7, 2023 · Pruning the River Birch Tree Pruning is essential for removing dead or diseased branches, shaping the tree, and promoting healthy growth. 4-9: 40-60 ft tall, 20-30 ft wide: Heritage Birch: Cultivar of River Birch. Salmon-pink, smooth and shiny at first, the bark flakes and curls in cinnamon-brown to blackish sheets. Box 200 Columbia, MO 65205 Phone: (888) 843-6739 | General Inquiries: info@moprairie. The pyramidal form features dense, glossy green leaves that fade to clear butter yellow in fall, and striking winter bark that is a pinkish orange with prominent exfoliation. River birches are the most heat-tolerant of all the Betula species. Betula nigra (river birch) Zones: 4-9 | Mature height: 40 to 70 feet The only birch whose native range includes the southeastern U. Vigorous and fast-growing, this birch has a large, pyramidal, upright habit and bears diamond-shaped, glossy green leaves with silvery undersides Betula nigra, commonly called river birch, is a vigorous, fast-growing, medium-sized, Missouri native deciduous tree which occurs on floodplains, swampy bottomlands and along streams throughout the State. To determine the appropriate spacing for planting river birch trees (Betula nigra), consider their mature canopy width. ” River birch is known for its showy exfoliating bark all four seasons. Heritage® river birch (Betula nigra ‘Cully’): Larger, glossy, dark green leaves, nearly white interior peeling bark, more heat tolerant. It is not a cause for concern; in fact, it adds to the tree’s unique aesthetic appeal. It can grow in most regions of the U. River birch is hardy, grows rapidly, but tends to be short-lived (30 to 40 years) in many urban settings, possibly due to inadequate water supply. The bark provides interest during any season of the year. The paper birch is a medium-sized tree that can reach up to 90 feet in height and 30 inches in diameter. River birch trees are relatively cold hardy and can grow in zones 4-9. Pruning is seldom required, but do so in the summer if necessary. org As its name suggests, the river birch naturally grows along riverbanks. Learn about river birch, a native tree with peeling bark and bright green leaves. In general, river birch trees prefer moist, well-drained soil that is slightly acidic, but they can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including clay, loam, and sand. 4-9: 40-50 ft tall, 25-40 ft wide: Little King Birch: Dwarf cultivar of River Birch. One of the major benefits of river birch is erosion control along streams and rivers. The most beautiful of American trees-that's what Prince Maximilian thought of river birch (Betula nigra) when he toured North America before he became the short-lived Emperor of Mexico (11). River birch is widely planted for its appealing, peeling bark and shiny, diamond-shaped leaves. River birch typically reaches about 35 feet in height, with a network of fine branches making up a narrow to oval-shaped crown. 6 to 12 meters). It is lighter and weaker than yellow or white birch. The white-barked trees are more likely to do well in cooler climates, though yellow birch, river birch, and Heritage river birch also do well in cooler areas. While these features apply to most birch trees, the river birch has an advantage as one of the hardiest varieties. Some trees may have naturalized in the wild from yards and gardens, but several populations in New England are native, and the species is listed as rare in New Hampshire and Massachusetts. Jan 24, 2020 · River birch tolerates low soil oxygen, flooding, and clay soil but needs moist conditions. 0. Find out how to grow, care for, and choose cultivated varieties of river birch in Minnesota. You’ll find river birch thriving in northern states, as well as Florida and Texas. Oct 27, 2017 · "'Heritage' river birch is an excellent selection with superior vigor, larger leaves and greater resistance to leaf spot,” said Michael Dirr in “Trees. When sold as a landscape plant, it is commonly seen as As its name suggests, the river birch naturally grows along riverbanks. Cinnamon-brown bark that peels off. Because the trees use a lot of water, many shade-loving plants do thrive when planted under river birches. In USDA zones 8b and 9a, river birch needs regular irrigation to survive the heat. susceptible. Shiloh Splash river birch (Betula nigra 'Shiloh Splash'): A compact form growing 10 feet high and 8 feet wide. The map also includes information on the climate and natural environment of each birch species, so you can be sure to find an ideal location to plant your birch tree. Grow Native! / Missouri Prairie Foundation. It has distinctive bark, yellow leaves, and winged seeds, and is used for reclamation, erosion control, and lumber. Aug 15, 2024 · While the River Birch boasts a myriad of positive attributes, it is essential to acknowledge potential drawbacks to make informed planting decisions. Jul 10, 2023 · Learn how to grow and care for river birch (Betula nigra), a fast-growing deciduous shade tree with exfoliating white bark. Jan 19, 2023 · River birch trees are hardy, heat-tolerant, and attractive trees for wet or moist soil. Water birch (Betula occidentalis) is a small western US native that also grows along streams in the Pine Ridge of northwest Nebraska. Another useful feature of the USDA map is the ability to zoom in and out of the map. Silver Birch, Bed Wen, Birk Tree, Common Birch, European White Birch, Lady Birch, Lady of the Woods, Warty Birch, Weeping Birch Betula pendula, commonly called silver birch or European white birch, is a graceful medium-sized tree with slender pendulous branches and attractive bark. Betula nigra, commonly called river birch, is a vigorous, fast-growing, medium-sized, Missouri native deciduous tree which occurs on floodplains, swampy bottomlands and along streams throughout the State. This species is a good choice for low spots and wet soils, such as near streams or ponds. Grelen. Betula papyrifera Marsh. Doesn’t require as much water. Jul 1, 2023 · The clumping river birch grows best as decorative trees in garden landscapes where there’s wet soil. Situate the tree so it receives adequate water. Feb 21, 2017 · A fast-growing shade tree, river birch (_Betula nigra_) is the most widely adapted of the birch trees. Colorful yellow fall foliage provide fall and winter interest. Last updated: Jun 7, 2021 • 6 min read River Birch (Betula nigra), the southernmost birch of the United States, makes its best growth alongside bodies of water or in occasionally flooded bottomlands. If there is a poorly drained, low lying area of the yard where other shade trees have suffered, that is the perfect spot to plant a river birch. Morphology: River birch is native to the eastern United States growing from the northeast states, south to Florida and west River birch is a medium-sized tree with an irregular, broad, spreading crown. As a member of the Birch Family, it is related to the Alders, Hornbeams, Filberts, and Hophornbeams, in addition to other Birches. The river birch is a fast growing tree, reaching between 40 Betula nigra ‘Heritage’ is a beautiful river birch prized for its incredible peeling bark. Pruning not only enhances the appearance and health of the tree, but it also helps prevent disease and insect infestations from occurring. In its native environment, it The River Birch is monoecious; both male and female flowers exist on one tree, albeit not within the same flower. Facts. The river birch thrives in sunlight or partial shade in wet sites with moist, acidic, sandy, or rocky and well-drained loam. Paper birch is named after the tree's thin white bark, which often peels in paper -like layers from the trunk. Zasada. O. The chalky bark or "paper" is more striking than river birch trees, appearing almost pure white (it is also sometimes erroneously called "white birch"). E. Learn how to plant, care for, and use river birch trees in your landscape with this guide. Learn about river birch, a native tree with attractive bark and yellow fall foliage. They both bloom in early spring. Betula jacquemontii, or Jacquemontii Birch Tree, is an upright, pyramidal tree typically grown as an ornamental and known for its bright white bark. The river birch tree (Betula nigra) is a shade tree with a quick growing rate of 1 ½ to 2 feet per year and native to the Mississippi River. River birch is a good choice for the North or Central Florida gardener who wants a fast-growing tree. Learn about river birch (Betula nigra), a widely adapted and popular tree with exfoliating bark and showy catkins. . Betulaceae -- Birch family. But as a landscape tree, it can be planted almost anywhere in the U. org. Susceptibility to Certain Diseases Aug 19, 2021 · River birch tolerates low soil oxygen, flooding, and clay soil, but needs moist conditions. River birch bears an average of 375,000 seeds per pound. Provides brilliant yellow fall A more heat and drought tolerant form of this species, with superior insect and disease resistance. They also prefer full to partial sun exposure, but can tolerate some shade. Betula nigra (River Birch) is a bushy deciduous tree prized for its incredible peeling bark. Introduction Birch trees (Betula) thrive in a wide range of soils and situations, and can be considered amongst the most amenable of trees for general planting. Sep 8, 2022 · Another birch tree grown as much for its peeling bark as for its fall foliage is the paper birch (Betula papyrifera). Bark is distinctive: reddish-brown or grayish, peeling into conspicuous papery strips Betula papyrifera, commonly called paper birch or canoe birch, is a robust, fast-growing landscaping tree with a most attractive gleaming white bark, which peels off in papery strips to reveal an orange-brown bark underneath. Birches ( Betula ), especially from the Himalayas, have bark in a variety of textures and shades of colour from dazzling white to milky-cream and bronze-pink to Planting Birch. For example, yellow is used to denote yellow birch, while red is used to denote river birch. 1. Particularly attractive in the winter months, it has exfoliating bark in shades ranging from light taupe to cinnamon brown, with some cultivars displaying multiple Feb 14, 2024 · River birch tree leaves are relatively small, deltoid-shaped (triangular) leaflets with double-serrated edges. This shedding occurs as the tree grows, allowing it to shed old bark and revealing the lighter layers beneath. The best time to prune river birch is late fall to early winter when the tree is dormant. Deciduous. Apr 20, 2021 · Not the river birch tree. Birch for winter interest The peeling bark and polished stems of many trees bring beauty to the garden at any time of the year, but are never more apparent than during the winter. Paper Birch. It often has multiple trunks. Hostas are tolerant of the dry shade created by river birch. River birch is hardy, grows rapidly, but the species tends to be short-lived (30 to 40 years) in many urban settings, possibly due to inadequate water supply. Also known as red birch, water birch, or black birch (15), it is the only birch whose range includes Dec 1, 2023 · The river birch tree (Betula nigra) is a shade tree with a quick growing rate of 1 ½ to 2 feet per year and native to the Mississippi River. Typical paper birch (Betula papyrifera var. This large tree is excellent for use as a focal point or shade tree. In cultivation, it can be trained as either a single trunk or multi-trunked tree. There are a just few key points to consider when choosing the planting position. To allow them ample room to grow without overcrowding, plant river birch trees at least 25 to 40 feet apart from each other. commutata (Regel) Fern. White bark peels and flakes off. It is native to North America and is commonly found in cool and moist areas such as riverbanks, swamps, and wetlands. Betula nigra (River Birch, Red Birch) Noted for beautiful, exfoliating bark and multiple trunks, River Birch is an excellent food source for wildlife, supporting hundreds of species of moths, butterflies, and songbirds. Understanding the cons of River Birch trees allows homeowners and landscapers to anticipate challenges and implement effective mitigation strategies. The birch leaves are identified by their prominent parallel veins running from the midrib to the toothed edges. Its fall foliage color is yellow. papyrifera var. When sold as a landscape plant, it is commonly seen as a single-stem tree or planted as a clump with three or more tree trunks. Betula papyrifera , or Paper Birch, is a loosely pyramidal tree when young changing to irregular oval to rounded with age: It usually retains low branches and can be single or Mar 7, 2024 · River Birch: Highly heat and flood tolerant. Photo by Paul Wray, Iowa State University, Bugwood. Bjorkbom, and John C. Leaves are alternate, simple, somewhat triangular to egg-shaped, 1½–3½ inches long, 1–2 inches wide; margins densely toothed; upper surface shiny dark green, lower surface whitish, very hairy. Jul 7, 2010 · Paper Birch and River Birch are some of the most popular landscape trees. ndqotigccobncatkoaqmkxbvddngkrwcyfeoolasjmujcgarbu