August Tree of the Month-River birch
We talk a lot about “well-drained” soils regarding plant preferences. But one tree that LOVES wet conditions is our native river birch-Betula nigra. River birch gets its common name from its natural habitat along riverbanks and flood plains, although they will tolerate drier conditions in a landscape setting.
Multi-stemmed specimens are common in the trade and are a designer’s dream in landscapes with their graceful forms and excellent winter interest. The bark is fantastic as it matures with layer upon layer of peeling strips. Birds love using river birch bark in nests every spring.
River birch can grow up to 70′, but 40-50′ is more common in cultivation. Full sun is preferred, but river birch will tolerate part-shade conditions.
They can make excellent shade trees near a patio, but birches tend to drop a lot of small diameter branches from the canopy that lawnmowers and people tend not to like. On the other hand, if you want branches in your floral designs, these are perfect for gathering up and using in arrangements or weaving into projects. The catkins can also be slightly messy once spent but are easily blown off (as are the small leaves in fall) before your afternoon siesta on the patio.
The cultivar ‘Little King’ at the MBG Kemper Center Children’s Garden started with a rounded habit but has grown more upright as it matures.
One of the most popular cultivars of river birch is the Heritage birch (Betula nigra ‘Cully’ HERITAGE), named for its developer, the late Earl Cully of Heritage Trees. The parent tree was discovered in St. Louis by Earl and has slightly lighter-colored bark and more disease and borer resistance than the species.
HERITAGE birch planted at Bellefontaine Cemetery and Arboretum above, and close up of bark below.
What I love about this plant;
-It’s a native!
-The beautiful papery, peeling bark.
-The graceful shape.
-Usually multi-stemmed-great for designs.
-One of the most disease and pest-resistant birches-unlike the white-barked birches that do NOT do well in St. Louis.
-Deer tolerant.
What’s not so great;
-The dropped branches and spent catkins can be a nuisance, but are an easy clean up compared to acorns, sweetgum balls, crabapples, etc.
-In summer drought conditions, birches will start dropping leaves to cope. Keep yours well-watered during dry spells.
-Don’t prune in spring when the sap is flowing.
-The roots of river birch and other water-loving trees may cause problems in old waterlines, situate your birch accordingly to avoid issues. A call to 1-800-DIG-RITE is free to locate your water lines and other public utilities.
Comments or questions? Email Garden-Lou at gardenloustl@gmail.com
Words and photos by Jo Batzer
© Jo Batzer, garden-lou.com-2023, All rights reserved.
