River Birch
River birch is a long-lived deciduous tree known for its striking, peeling salmon-colored bark and adaptability to wet conditions. It typically grows 40 to 50 feet tall but can reach up to 80 feet in optimal conditions. Its natural form is single-trunked, but multi-trunked cultivars are common. The tree has an upright, oval to pyramidal crown when young, becoming more spreading with age. Its dark green rhomboid or ovate leaves turn yellow in the fall.
Sizes Available
Wholesale Only
1 Gallon
$5.00
3 Gallon
$15.00
7 Gallon
$22.00
15 Gallon
$50.00
River Birch’s distinctive peeling bark provides striking visual interest in all seasons.
Scientific Name: Betula nigra
Common Name: River Birch
Hardiness Zones: 4A-9A
Height: 50-80 feet
Spread: Up to 40 feet
Growth Rate: Fast
Foliage:
- Spring & Summer: Dark green, rhomboid or ovate leaves
- Fall: Golden yellow
Bark: Reddish-brown to creamy yellow, peeling in papery curls
Sun: Full sun to part shade
Soil: Adaptable to clay, loam, or sand; prefers acidic soils (pH 6.5 or lower)
Wildlife Value: Provides seeds for birds and small mammals; serves as a larval host for Mourning Cloak and Dreamy Duskywing butterflies
Why Choose River Birch?
Ornamental Appeal:
The unique peeling bark adds year-round visual interest to landscapes.
Adaptability:
Thrives in wet soils and is resistant to many pests and diseases.
Erosion Control:
Excellent for stabilizing riverbanks and wetland areas.
Wildlife Benefits:
Provides habitat and food for various birds and pollinators.
Environmental Benefits of Planting River Birch
This data is based on US Averages of healthy and mature trees over a 20-year period.
Check out the USDA’s MyTree Tool to input your custom location data.
A single river birch can offset the CO₂ emissions produced by driving an average gas-powered car for 30,819 miles.
A single river birch can absorb enough stormwater to fill 2,163 bathtubs, reducing erosion, runoff, and supporting transpiration.
A single river birch removes as much air pollution as the weight of 188 smartphones.
Central Florida Lands and Timber Nursery, LLC. is a wholesale nursery specializing in a wide array of trees and shrubs. With an inventory of over 2 million trees and shrubs, CFLTN, LCC can meet the needs of customers, whether it be reforestation, mitigation, or landscaping.
Phone
(386) 294-1211
Address
3087 North County Road 53 Mayo, Florida 32066