Betula nigra
BET-you-luh NYE-gruh

River Birch, Red Birch
Betulaceae (Birch family)
Origin: Eastern U.S., 1736

Species characteristics:
Form - Deciduous. Glossy foliaged tree with vigorous but irregular growth. Grows moderately at first, then rapidly to 45' with a 30' spread.

Trunk - Juvenile bark is lighter than the species. Bark flakes and peels to a creamy cinnamon. Has a torn and ragged appearance. Becomes brown and ridged with age.

Foliage - Leaves ovate or diamond shaped, doubly serrated 1 - 3" long, glossy green above, silvery and glaucous below. Glossy light green spring foliage becomes deeper green in summer, turning a dramatic gold in fall. Pubescent when young, but only on veins when mature. Seven or more pairs of veins.

Flowers/fruit - Inconspicuous, yellow catkins in spring. Fruits mature May - June, remaining until fall.

Significant pest problems are aphids and birch leaf miner.

Site suitability:
Sunset zones - All zones.

Clearances - Suitable for 8 - 12' parkways or 10 - 20' medians.

Good for streetsides, medians, parks, and lawns.

Culture considerations:
Prefers moist, sandy soil.

Comments, notes:
*NOTE: Only the "Heritage", 1979, cultivar is discussed.
Photo is of species - the "Heritage" is more erect."