Birch, Heritage River Betula nigra 'Heritage' Height: 40 feet Spread: 30 feet
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Hardiness Zone: 3b Other Names: Red Birch Description: An excellent cultivar of the native river birch selected for its amazing peeling bark in colors of white, brown and tan, more creamy white than the species, also has reliable fall color Ornamental Features Birch, Heritage River features subtle chartreuse catkins in early spring. It has dark green deciduous foliage. The pointy leaves turn an outstanding yellow in the fall. However, the fruit can be messy in the landscape and may require occasional clean-up. The peeling creamy white bark is extremely showy and adds significant winter interest. Landscape Attributes Birch, Heritage River is an open deciduous tree with a shapely oval form. Its relatively fine texture sets it apart from other landscape plants with less refined foliage. This is a relatively low maintenance tree, and is best pruned in late winter once the threat of extreme cold has passed. Gardeners should be aware of the following characteristic(s) that may warrant special consideration; Birch, Heritage River is recommended for the following landscape applications; Planting & Growing Birch, Heritage River will grow to be about 40 feet tall at maturity, with a spread of 30 feet. It has a high canopy of foliage that sits well above the ground, and should not be planted underneath power lines. As it matures, the lower branches of this tree can be strategically removed to create a high enough canopy to support unobstructed human traffic underneath. It grows at a fast rate, and under ideal conditions can be expected to live for 70 years or more. This tree does best in full sun to partial shade. It is quite adaptable, prefering to grow in average to wet conditions, and will even tolerate some standing water. This plant should be periodically fertilized throughout the active growing season with a specially-formulated acidic fertilizer. It is not particular as to soil type or pH. It is highly tolerant of urban pollution and will even thrive in inner city environments. This is a selection of a native North American species. Special Attributes Early Spring 1 1/2 to 2 inch catkins appear and releases tiny seeds during summer and fall. River Birch are more resistant to the Birch Borer. 
