Tall River Birch Tree with slender trunk and vibrant leafy green foliage

River Birch Tree

1-2 Feet / Buy 1 Get 1 Free
$21.99
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River Birch Tree

River Birch Tree

Height Shipped
Quantity: (Buy More, Save More)

Buy 1, Get 1 FREE - Add 1 to your cart, and we'll automatically send the second one FREE!Bulk pricing applied. Free plant offer is only on the Buy 1 Get 1 Free option.
$21.99
$11.00 each 2 plants (buy 1, get 1 free)
Ships Between November 15-29
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Tall River Birch Tree with slender trunk and vibrant leafy green foliage
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Planting & Growing Information

Ships

Ships Between November 15-29

Planting Zone

4-9

Height at Maturity

40–70 Feet

Water Needs

Low, Moderate, and High

Sun or Shade

Full sun, Partial shade, and Shade

Bloom Season

March–May

Care

River birch trees thrive in moist to wet, acidic soil. They require regular watering, especially in long dry spells. Mulch the base to maintain moisture. Prune in summer to remove damaged branches and avoid heavy sap bleeding.

Exposure

Full sun to partial shade. It needs at least 4 hours of direct sun daily; however, afternoon shade can be beneficial in hot climates.

Plant Attributes

Peeling cinnamon-and-cream bark , thrives in wet soil, resists bronze birch borer, Year-round interest
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Planting & Growing Information

Ships

Ships Between November 15-29

Planting Zone

4-9

Height at Maturity

40–70 Feet

Water Needs

Low, Moderate, and High

Sun or Shade

Full sun, Partial shade, and Shade

Bloom Season

March–May

Care

River birch trees thrive in moist to wet, acidic soil. They require regular watering, especially in long dry spells. Mulch the base to maintain moisture. Prune in summer to remove damaged branches and avoid heavy sap bleeding.

Exposure

Full sun to partial shade. It needs at least 4 hours of direct sun daily; however, afternoon shade can be beneficial in hot climates.

Plant Attributes

Peeling cinnamon-and-cream bark , thrives in wet soil, resists bronze birch borer, Year-round interest

Featured Reviews

4.6 (24 reviews) View all reviews See all

Pamela Brigham

River Birch Tree

Scott Eberstein

Great looking trees, planted them near our wildlife pond, put fencing around them to protect them, some had leaves, they be tested the next couple nights, near freezing temperatures, thanks

STACIA LONGO

My trees arrived. I planted them and waiting for them to grow.

About this plant

River Birch Tree Details

River Birch - Betula nigra

River birch (Betula nigra) has become one of the most popular birches planted in North America. This deciduous tree is native to the eastern United States, where it grows along rivers and streams, which is how it got its name. The tree's branches form an arching, expanding canopy overhead, and it's often grown with several trunks. It makes a graceful shade tree for a yard, a park, or a wet corner where other trees struggle.

The River Birch Changes With Every Season

 The river birch’s tender, bright green leaves are displayed in the spring. Summer brings full canopy, providing broad, cool shade from the hot midday sun. In autumn, the whole tree turns golden yellow. Even in winter, its bare branches stand out against the sky, and its peeling bark gives you something to admire on the grayest days.

Leaves, Seeds, and Wildlife Support

The leaves of the river birch are diamond-shaped, with double-toothed edges, a dark green top, and a paler underside that flashes when the wind turns it over. These leaves feed the caterpillars of several native butterflies and moths, which in turn feed songbirds. Unlike most birches, the tree drops its tiny seeds in the spring, and finches and other small birds pick through them.

Unique Bark and Foliage

One of the most impressive features of the tree is its bark, which comes in shades of salmon, cinnamon, and cream and peels away in thin, papery curls. On older trunks, the bark near the base turns darker and rougher.

River Birch Tree for Sale: A Popular Choice for Urban Landscaping

The river birch is widely used among landscape architects as a garden or park tree and in urban landscaping. It's a natural fit near a pond or stream, in a rain garden, or along a bank where its roots help hold the soil in place. It also handles heat better than other birches and resists the bronze birch borer, a beetle that kills many white birches.

Looking for a river birch tree for sale? TN Nursery ships it bare root in 1-2, 2-3, and 3-4 foot sizes. Before you order, walk your yard and look for that low, soggy spot where nothing else wants to grow. That's often the perfect home for it.

River birch grows in USDA zones 4 through 9 and reaches 40 to 70 feet tall and 40 to 60 feet wide. It's a fast grower, often adding two feet or more a year when young. Give it full sun to partial shade and moist, acidic soil. It handles wet feet and even short floods. In alkaline soil, though, the leaves turn yellow and the tree struggles. During long, dry summers, it may drop some leaves and twigs, so plant it at least 20 feet from your house and away from spots you'd rather keep tidy.

Bare-Root Planting and Care

This plant ships bare root, so plant as soon as the box arrives. Soak the roots for a couple of hours, set the tree with the root flare right at soil level, and water it in well. Spread mulch in a wide ring, keeping it a few inches from the trunk. River birch is a thirsty tree, so don't let the soil dry out that first summer. Soak it deeply whenever the top feels dry. Once its roots take hold, it grows fast.


Planting & Growing Information

Ships: Ships Between November 15–29
Planting Zone: 4–9
Height at Maturity: 40–70 Feet
Water Needs: Moderate to High
Sun or Shade: Full sun and Partial shade
Bloom Season: March–May
Care: River birch trees thrive in moist to wet, acidic soil. They require regular watering, especially in long dry spells. Mulch the base to maintain moisture. Prune in summer to remove damaged branches and avoid heavy sap bleeding.
Exposure: Full sun to partial shade. It needs at least 4 hours of direct sun daily; however, afternoon shade can be beneficial in hot climates.
Plant Attributes: Peeling cinnamon-and-cream bark, thrives in wet soil, resists bronze birch borer, Year-round interest

Growing Tips: Learn more about planting and caring for river birch trees with our River Birch guide. You can also explore our collection of trees to discover more trees for your garden and landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is river birch a good yard tree?

Yes, River Birch is an excellent yard tree known for its beauty and resilience. Its peeling bark and graceful shape add year-round interest to any landscape. It grows quickly and adapts easily to various soil conditions.
Is river birch a messy tree?

No, River Birch is not a messy tree—it’s amazing for any landscape. Its attractive bark and lush canopy make it a standout feature. It stays neat while providing shade and natural beauty all year long.
Can you plant a river birch next to your house?

Yes, you can plant a River Birch next to your house if you give it enough space to grow. Its roots stay manageable when planted a safe distance from foundations. With proper placement, it enhances your home’s beauty and shade.
Should I buy river birch tree saplings for a wet, soggy spot in my yard?

Yes, it's one of the best choices you can make, especially for wet spots. A river birch tree grows naturally along streams, so it handles wet soil and even short floods. Just make sure the soil is acidic, not alkaline.
Is river birch a good alternative to white birch?

For most yards, yes. White birches struggle with heat and the bronze birch borer, while river birch handles both well. You trade bright white bark for peeling cinnamon and cream bark that's just as eye-catching.
Root system of a plant on soil with a trowel nearby

Why Buy Bare Root Plants From TN Nursery?

Since 1959, TN Nursery has grown and shipped quality bare root plants nationwide. Shipped during dormancy, bare-root plants develop strong root systems and establish quickly. Our experienced team carefully harvests and packages every order, providing growers with trusted plants backed by over 65 years of nursery experience.

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Bare root trees
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Distinctive Bark: 

The River Birch Tree features striking, peeling bark that adds unique texture and visual interest to any landscape.

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Wildlife Friendly: 

Attracts birds and other wildlife, providing both beauty and ecological benefits to your garden or yard

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Adaptable Growth: 

Thrives in a variety of soil conditions, including wet and poorly drained areas, making it a versatile choice for different environments.

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Elegant Form: 

With its graceful, multi-trunk structure and attractive foliage, the River Birch Tree enhances the aesthetic appeal of any garden.

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  • 5 stars: 14 (58%)
  • 4 stars: 10 (42%)
  • 3 stars: 0 (0%)
  • 2 stars: 0 (0%)
  • 1 star: 0 (0%)
S
Sharon

The River Birch tree I ordered from TN Nursery arrived in beautiful condition. It arrived well packaged and very healthy. Thank you TN Nursery.

L
Lydia Montague, New Jersey
Striking River Birch

I’m thrilled with my River Birch Tree. The bark’s texture and leaf color are exceptional, and TN Nursery made ordering simple and efficient.

C
Cassidy Monroe, Massachusetts
Vibrant Landscape Tree

My River Birch Tree is flourishing! Its unique bark and flowing branches add charm to my property. TN Nursery’s guidance and service were top-notch.

E
Elliott Prescott, New York
Graceful River Birch

I love the River Birch Tree I purchased. It grows fast, looks elegant year-round, and TN Nursery ensured a seamless buying experience.

S
Sabrina Kincaid, Maine
Lush and Thriving Birch

This River Birch Tree is thriving beautifully. Leaves are lush and green, and the tree adds instant elegance. TN Nursery’s support made planting effortless.

C
Connor Whitfield, Vermont
Majestic Birch for My Garden

I’m impressed with the River Birch Tree from TN Nursery. The foliage is dense, the bark striking, and the tree established quickly. Truly a standout addition.

H
Harper Langley, New Hampshire
Elegant River Birch Beauty

The River Birch Tree from TN Nursery arrived healthy and vibrant. Its graceful bark and lush leaves make my yard feel serene. Excellent service and fast shipping.

J
Jonathan Scott, Florida
Remarkable River Birch Tree Quality

The River Birch Tree TN Nursery sent me was remarkable. It arrived secure, lush, and has quickly taken root in my garden soil.

S
Sarah Mitchell, Mississippi
Premium River Birch Tree from TN Nursery

I received a premium River Birch Tree that looked freshly dug. It was carefully packed, the roots were moist, and it’s now flourishing perfectly in my landscape.

C
Christopher Hayes, Alabama
Magnificent River Birch Tree Purchase

The River Birch Tree was magnificent in every detail—shiny leaves, robust roots, and a graceful structure. TN Nursery exceeded my expectations.

E
Emily Foster, Tennessee
Thriving River Birch Tree for My Yard

The River Birch Tree I received was thriving even before planting. The trunk was sturdy, the branches flexible, and within weeks, it’s showing new growth

D
David Ramirez, Georgia
Healthy River Birch Tree from TN Nursery

My River Birch Tree came healthy and strong with vibrant leaves and a firm root ball. TN Nursery really provides top-quality trees that thrive from day one.

A
Amanda Lewis, Kentucky
Exceptional River Birch Tree Purchase

TN Nursery delivered an exceptional River Birch Tree. It was tall, vigorous, and packaged carefully to arrive in flawless condition. It has quickly adapted to my yard.

W
William Turner, Virginia
Beautiful River Birch Tree from TN Nursery

The River Birch Tree I purchased arrived beautiful and full of life. Its multi-stemmed trunk and healthy root system made planting easy, and it’s already growing rapidly.

P
Pamela Brigham

River Birch Tree

S
Scott Eberstein
River birch

Great looking trees, planted them near our wildlife pond, put fencing around them to protect them, some had leaves, they be tested the next couple nights, near freezing temperatures, thanks

S
STACIA LONGO

My trees arrived. I planted them and waiting for them to grow.

S
Shirley Weasel

Expected size. Good condition

D
Douglas Kusske

River Birch Tree

s
susan chavez
Very good condition when they arrived

Nice size, good condition, well packaged, will be happy once they start to leaf out

T
Tony Orihuela
Nice Trees

The trees were packaged well and the roots were wrapped and protected. These should grow to be nice trees.

g
greg Martin

River Birch Tree

M
Marvin Himmel

River Birch Tree

B
Belt Nelson
Can’t wait to watch it grow

Packed well and looks very healthy thanks so much will be ordering again soon.