River Birch trees are commonly planted in moist soil areas. This tree is a popular favorite for Iowa landscapes. The unique beauty of the peeling bark adds character and interest to landscapes. These trees are usually grown in clumps of three trunks for added interest. This deciduous tree displays bright yellow foliage during the fall. This birch grows well in wet areas. This tree produces nutlet clusters that are an inch or two in length and the width of a pencil.  This tree requires frequent watering, especially during periods of drought. River Birch is a native tree of North America.

River Birch

Betula Nigra

Plant Type- Deciduous Tree

Flower Color- Yellow

Foliage Color- Green in the summer and yellow in the fall.

Growth Habit- Upright, Weeping

Growth Rate- Fast

Zone- 4-9

Height- 40-70 feet tall

Spread- 40-60 feet wide

Light- Full sun

Details- Best known for its peeling bark, this tree makes a great focal point in landscapes.  The three-trunk formation sets this tree apart from other trees.  This birch is commonly planted in landscapes near collections of water.  This deer resistant plant provides year-round interest.

Pruning-  Birch should be pruned to remove dead or damage branches.  The tree can also use pruning to help reduce low branching.

Other birch tree options.

  • Cutleaf European White Birch
  • Dura Heat® River Birch
  • European White Birch
  • Heritage® River Birch
  • Purple Rain® European White Birch
  • Summer Cascade River Birch
  • Whitebarked Himalayan Birch
  • Young’s Weeping Birch