River Birch (Betula nigra)

Estimated Height at Pickup: 5-6', 3 gal.

A.k.a. paperbark birch. One of the most adaptable and southerly of the birches, it hosts the mourning cloak butterfly and two spectacular moths: the io and promethea! Prefers moist soil containing some loam and tolerates poor drainage. It’s naturally peel-y bark can be somewhat paler than the oft-seen cultivars, but is otherwise comparable.

Pollination: 2+ individuals likely needed.

Light: Full Sun, Part Sun/Shade

Soil Moisture: Wet, Wet Mesic, Mesic

Soil Type: Adaptable

Height: 40’-90’

Width: 40’-70’

Bloom Color: -

Bloom Time: Apr-May

Fruit: Small winged seeds mature late spring-early summer.

Fall Color: Yellow

Root Type: Branching

Notable Wildlife Interactions: Hosts the mourning cloak butterflies, many moths including the io and promethea, as well as beetles, leafhoppers, and smaller insects. A few birds are known to eat the seeds, including chickadee and purple finches. Commonly browsed by deer, rabbit, and beaver.

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