River Birch Trees

River Birch Trees When I was in the 8th grade I would go fishing along the Delaware River at night. I would camp along the river bank and fish into the wee hours of the night. I am always drifting back to those childhood memories when I pass a river birch tree that is highlighted by lights at night. The nightime interest that this tree expresses can help capture moments for you. The main feature of this medium sized spreading tree is its colorful peeling bark. This builds up on the stem and main branches in soft curling layers of orange, pink, grey and brown. Another great advantage of this species is its tolerance of wet soil and seasonal flooding making it an ideal pond or riverbank tree. Specimens often develop multiple stems which increases the attractiveness its shaggy bark. As an ornamental tree it also has bright green, toothed leaves and long yellow clusters of catkins in early spring. It will have a spreading root system that will check erosion. It is hardy and will seldom blow down. The plant is native to the eastern states from Massachusetts to Florida. The range continues along the Gulf of Mexico and into Texas. If you have had trouble planting a tree the River Birch is a choice that is easy to transplant. They are adaptable and grow fast. These trees do not seem to be bothered by the Bronzed Birch Borer which has killed off many White Birches used in urban landscapes. Of all the trees that I grow on our nursery, )see http://www.seedlingsrus.com ) the River Birch is my favorite.