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River Birch, Betula nigra, native to east Texas, is commonly found in stands along streams and in lowland wet areas. Placed as an accent, a single river birch has a certain gracefulness that can be an effective addition to the home landscape.
Use the birch as an accent near a corner of the lawn, and incorporate it into a design with evergreen, shade-tolerant shrubs. A deciduous, open tree, it provides a light shade canopy. River birch has numerous slender branches and delicate, dark green leaves, which turn yellow in the fall. The greyish multi-stemmed trunk and red-brown peeling bark lend an attractive appearance all year.
River birch is especially suited for, but not limited to, slow draining areas. It is tolerant of less than ideal conditions, but allow for root spread and eventual height of twenty or more feet. It is important to mulch and water well during the first two years. The river birch should then be well established and provide years of shade and beauty.
Linda Brumitt, Smith County Master Gardener
Texas AgriLife Extension Service