New England Wild Flower Society

Printed at http://plantfinder.nativeplanttrust.org/index.cfm/

Betula nigra

river birch

River birch can handle urban heat better than any other species in New England. Dark yellow (sometimes pink-tinged) bark begins to peel in the tree's 4th or 5th year. Despite serving as a host plant for many insects, this species is not affected by bronze birch borer.

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Height: 25-45 ft

Spread: 15-25 ft

Hardiness Zone: 4-9

Bloom Color: Insignificant

Characteristics & Attributes

Cultivation Status

•

Species

Exposure

•	Sun
•	Part Shade

Soil Moisture

•	Average
•	Wet

Ecoregion

•	(84) Atlantic Coastal Pine Barrens
•	(59) Northeastern Coastal Zone
•	(83) Eastern Great Lakes Lowlands
•	(58) Northeastern Highlands

Attracts Wildlife

•	Host Plant
•	Pollinator Powerhouse Plant
•	Attracts Songbirds

Tolerance

•	Deer/Rabbit Resistant
•	Urban Environment
•	Compaction Tolerant
•	Salt Tolerant

Additional Attributes

•	Low Maintenance

Landscape Use

•	Naturalize
•	Rain Garden
•	Specimen
•	Massing

Attractive Fall Foliage and/or Ornamental Fruit

•	Bright Yellow to Bronze Fall Foliage