River Birch Tree
Thrives in Zones 4-9
Fast-growing for quick landscape impact
Attractive yellow foliage in autumn
Supports local wildlife with its seeds
Ships in
November 2025River Birch Tree - Betula Nigra
The River Birch Tree will make a stunning statement in your yard. This deciduous tree has distinctive, exfoliating bark and an elegant stature. It is a beautiful deciduous, multitrunked tree recognized by its naturally exfoliating bark. It is native to the southern states.
This is a tree that grows fast and will make an impact on your landscape quickly. Plant in a park or garden, or along a stream. This is a great tree for creating a shade garden, an inspired garden, or as a focal point in an ornamental garden.
Plant Details - River Birch Tree (Betula Nigra)
Family: Betulaceae
Light Requirement: Full Sun
Water Needs: Moist
Height: 25 – 40 ft.
Spread: 20 – 30 ft.
Growth Rate: Fast
Bloom Time: Spring
Flower Color: Brown
Wildlife Value: Attracts butterflies, birds
Landscape Uses and Maintenance - River Birch Tree
Plant this tree in a location that has full sun to partial shade. Planting it in full sun will allow it to grow quickly. Its leaves are green and diamond-shaped. From late winter to early spring, this tree produces two types of small catkins, both inconspicuous.
As its name suggests, this tree grows well in wet sites. Make sure to water deeply and routinely if you plant this tree in a drier site. Water it thoroughly when first planted until it is well established.This tree can tolerate many types of soil, including clay as it holds more moisture, and will tolerate flooding. It prefers acidic soil.
This tree will attract lots of wildlife to your landscape, including pollinators, birds, and small mammals. Having some deer problems? This is a deer-resistant tree.Watch this tree for signs of chlorosis or bark borers.
Noteworthy Characteristics of River Birch Tree
River Birch Tree has beautiful, red brown exfoliating bark. Since this tree is able to grow in wet sites, it is a great option for erosion control.
Plant them and they will come! This native tree will attract many butterflies to your yard. It is a host plant for the Mourning Cloak butterfly and Dreamy Duskywing butterfly.
This Is How Your Plants Will Look upon Delivery
Height at Maturity
Over 25 Feet
Care
River Birch trees thrive in well-drained, moist soil. They need regular watering, particularly during dry years, and mulch the base to keep moisture. They are pruned in late winter to hold the body and remove damaged branches. They are relatively low-maintenance and hardy.
Plant Reproduction
River Birch Tree spreads through wind-dispersed seeds and root sprouts.
How to Grow and Care for Bare Root Trees
Bare root trees are shipped dormant without soil, making them lightweight, cost-effective, and easy to plant during the cool months of early spring or fall. To begin, soak the roots in a bucket of water for 4–6 hours before planting to rehydrate them. Choose a sunny location with well-draining soil and ample space for the tree’s mature size.
Dig a hole twice as wide as the spread of the roots and deep enough to keep the root flare (where the roots begin to spread from the trunk) at or slightly above ground level. Create a small mound of soil in the center of the hole, spread the roots evenly over it, backfill with native soil, and gently tamp down to remove air pockets. Water thoroughly after planting.
Keep the soil consistently moist (not soggy) during the first growing season, and apply mulch around the base—avoiding direct contact with the trunk—to conserve moisture and suppress weeds. Stake the tree if necessary, and prune only to remove dead or damaged branches. With proper care, your bare root tree will establish quickly and grow strong for years to come.
Shipping date depends on the date displayed and chosen when you order from the product's page.
We do not accept returned plants. If you purchased an extended warranty we do accept claims, please navigate to the warranty page for instructions HERE
Why You Will Love Our River Birch Tree
Distinctive Bark:
The River Birch Tree features striking, peeling bark that adds unique texture and visual interest to any landscape.
Wildlife Friendly:
Attracts birds and other wildlife, providing both beauty and ecological benefits to your garden or yard
Adaptable Growth:
Thrives in a variety of soil conditions, including wet and poorly drained areas, making it a versatile choice for different environments.
Elegant Form:
With its graceful, multi-trunk structure and attractive foliage, the River Birch Tree enhances the aesthetic appeal of any garden.
