Plant Description
The River Birch (Betula nigra) is a deciduous tree native to New Jersey, typically growing 30 to 50 feet tall but capable of reaching up to 90 feet under optimal conditions. It is often multi-trunked with a slightly leaning and forked structure, supporting an irregular, spreading crown. The tree’s standout feature is its peeling bark, which begins as satiny silver and exfoliates to reveal a rich cinnamon-brown layer beneath, providing year-round interest. Its dark green, diamond-shaped leaves turn a subtle yellow in the fall (Jersey-Friendly Yards).
Thriving in moist to wet soils, River Birch is an excellent choice for rain gardens or planting along streams and ponds, as its extensive root system helps control erosion. It is adaptable to drier soils and tolerant of periodic flooding, showcasing its versatility in various landscapes. Notably, it is the southernmost New World birch species and the only birch found at low altitudes in the southeastern United States (Jersey-Friendly Yards).
