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Plant Profiles / River birch
Photos: Wikimedia Commons
River birch
Betula nigra · Black birch, water birch
Peeling, cinnamon-to-cream bark and glossy leaves. More heat tolerant than silver birch.
Full sun to part shadeLight
Twice weekly in summerWater
EasyCare level
Care at a glance
Light
Full sun to part shade
ShadeFull sun
Sun is best.
Water
Twice weekly in summer
DryWet
Likes moisture.
Humidity
Average
LowHigh
Adaptable.
Temperature
-25–38°C (-13–100°F)
CoolWarm
Heat tolerant.
Growth
Fast
SlowFast
Grows 12–18 m.
Soil
Moist soil
LeanRich
Tolerates wet.
Fertiliser
Spring
RarelyOften
Slow-release fertiliser.
Pet safety
Mildly toxic
SafeToxic
Mildly toxic to pets.
About this plant
Native to the eastern US, river birch grows along streams and copes with wet soil and heat. 'Heritage' is a popular cultivar.
Best spots
Gardens, damp spots and courtyards.
Plant facts
| Botanical name | Betula nigra |
| Family | Betulaceae |
| Origin | Eastern USA |
| Plant type | Deciduous tree |
| Mature size | 12–18 m |
| Growth rate | Fast |
| Leaves | Yellow in autumn |
| Toxicity | Mildly toxic to pets |
| Propagation | Seed or cuttings |
Seasonal care calendar
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Plant
Autumn colour
Prune
Fertilise
PlantAutumn colourPruneFertilise
Based on Southern Hemisphere seasons.
Troubleshooting
| Yellow leaves | Alkaline soil. |
| Leaf drop | Drought. |
| Aphids | Hose off. |
| Weak branches | Prune in winter. |
Common questions
Is it heat tolerant?
More than silver birch.
Is it pet safe?
Mildly toxic.
Does it like wet soil?
Yes.
Can it go in a pot?
Only when young.
