Thuja Arborvitae
Description: The River Birch is a graceful, deciduous tree that features an upright form with an oval-shaped crown. It often grows as a multi-stemmed specimen, reaching heights of up to 50 feet with a spread of about 35 feet. Known for its moderate to fast growth rate, this tree is a popular choice in landscapes due to its ability to mature quickly and its attractive appearance.
Twig/Bark: One of the most distinctive characteristics of the River Birch is its light-colored, exfoliating bark. As the bark peels away in papery layers, it reveals a spectrum of colors, including cream, tan, and cinnamon-brown, providing year-round visual appeal.
Leaves: The leaves of the River Birch are simple and ovate, resembling an egg shape, with a sharp, pointed tip and doubly serrated edges. In the fall, the tree’s foliage transitions to a bright yellow, creating a striking seasonal display.
Flower/Fruit: The River Birch is monoecious, meaning both male and female flowers are found on the same tree. Male flowers appear in the form of drooping catkins, while female flowers are smaller and emerge in clusters.
Habitat: This versatile species is highly adaptable, tolerating a wide range of soil types and nutritional conditions. However, the River Birch thrives best in environments where adequate moisture is consistently available, making it particularly suited to areas with wet, poorly drained soils. It is also known for its resilience in various landscape settings, including urban environments, where soil quality may vary.