Plant Finder

Other Names:  River (Red) Birch

Brand:  Bailey Nurseries

Description:

A visually stunning upright oval variety; lustrous medium to dark green leaves have doubly serrated margins; peeling ivory bark exposes the copper-bronze under layer, for great winter interest

Ornamental Features

Birch, Northern Tribute has dark green deciduous foliage on a tree with an oval habit of growth. The small serrated 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 white bark is extremely showy and adds significant winter interest.

Landscape Attributes

Birch, Northern Tribute 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;

• Insects

Birch, Northern Tribute is recommended for the following landscape applications;

• Accent
• Shade
• Mass Planting

Planting & Growing

Birch, Northern Tribute will grow to be about 35 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 medium 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.