Michigan State University Extension
Ornamental Plants plus Version 3.0 - 00000212
11/12/99

Betula nigra--River Birch, Red Birch


Hardiness Zones: 3 to 9
Height: 45 ft Spread: 35 ft Form: (Vis. 4) oval
Type: deciduous tree
Annual Growth Rate: more than 18 inches

Comments: River Birch has peeling brown bark (Vis. 3) and is
more borer resistance than white bark birches. The tree
tolerates a range of soil moisture but is well suited for
wet soils. Reddish, scaly bark provides winter interest.
Iron chlorosis may be a problem if the pH is too high.
The fall color is yellow but the brief display is not as
effective as some other trees.

Cultivars:
'Cully' (Heritage(R))(Plant Patent 4409) - The lighter
colored bark consists of patches of cream, orange and
pinkish-tan.
Dura-Heat TM - Smaller than the species, yellow fall
color.
'Little King' (Fox Valley River Birch TM) - A dwarf
form (Vis. 2), 8- to 10 feet tall forming a low
branched tree with white, peeling bark (Vis. 1).
Tecumseh Compact TM - A compact tree with pendulous
branches. It reaches a height and spread of about 12
feet.

References for Cultivars: J. Frank Schmidt and Son 1999,
Spring Meadow Nursery 1999, Chicagoland Grows Inc. 1994,
Lake County Nursery 1997, Princeton Nurseries 1997, White
Flower Farm 1999, Wayside Gardens 1999, Studebaker
Nurseries 1999, Bailey Nurseries 1999, Ray Wiegand's Nursery
1999, Gee Farms 1999, Willoway Nurseries 1999, Carlton
Plants 1999.


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