Betula nigra
River birch is a popular deciduous tree known for its characteristic bark which changes as it matures. Young trees have a mosaic of peeling, papery bark of a silvery color that curls back to reveal a sterner bark that is pale cinnamon in color; as it ages, the papery scales transition to thicker plates, creating a visible gradient of age. These trees are often seen in lowlands, marshes, and other wet areas though they do not tolerate shade well. In addition to these and its ability to withstand acidic soils, river birch is often used for erosion control especially in mining areas. It is sometimes used in furniture, and Native Americans would also boil its sap to make a sweetener similar to maple syrup.
Family: Betulaceae
Foliage: Deciduous
Mature height range: 30-50 ft. though can reach heights of 90 ft. or more
Light exposure: Full Sun to Partial Shade
Soil preference: Moist
Tolerance: Can tolerate flooding conditions and acidic soils, making it well suited for erosion control; tolerates higher temperatures than other birches
Wildlife: nesting by waterfowl, seed-eating by ruffed grouse and wild turkey, browsing by game mammals, larval host plant for over 15 moth species
