River Birch
Betula nigra
Traits
Varieties We Bring In
Last received Jul 19, 2026.
We bring this in seasonally, so what is on the lot changes week to week. A received date shows when it last came in, not that it is here today.
Call (904) 471-0440 to confirm this plant and size before you make the trip.
About River Birch
River Birch (Betula nigra) is a native deciduous tree of the eastern United States recognized for its exfoliating cinnamon-to-cream papery bark and diamond-shaped glossy leaves. The most heat-tolerant birch, it naturally thrives along streams and floodplains; in NE Florida landscapes it performs best in zone 9a and with heat-tolerant cultivars (e.g., Dura-Heat®) when planted in moist, acidic soil with reliable irrigation. Starting at $24.95.
Plant details
- Bloom Season
- Spring
- Flower Color
- Non-flowering
- Growth Rate
- Fast
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Soil
- Sandy, Loam, Clay, Acidic, Well-drained, Wet
Best planting months
Seasonal care
Bloom season. New foliage emerges. Good planting window.
Higher water demand in summer heat.
Foliage may begin to change or drop. Ideal planting window.
Dormant — drops foliage. Can be planted in mild winter periods.
Care essentials
Plant River Birch in full sun to partial shade; full sun with consistent moisture produces the best growth. In NE Florida heat, afternoon partial shade helps reduce stress, especially in drier sites.
River Birch requires consistently moist to wet soil — it naturally grows along floodplains and tolerates periodic flooding. Water deeply and regularly, especially during establishment and dry periods; do not allow soil to dry out.
Requires acidic, moist soil (pH 5.0–6.5); chlorosis develops in alkaline soils. Amend with sulfur if needed. Fertilize in spring with an acid-forming slow-release fertilizer. Avoid heavy clay without drainage or extremely dry sandy sites.
Similar needs
American Hornbeam
Shares 4 of the same needs: full sun, high water, sandy, and zone 9a hardiness.
American Snowbell
Shares 4 of the same needs: full sun, high water, loam, and zone 9a hardiness.
Dahoon Holly
Shares 4 of the same needs: full sun, high water, sandy, and zone 9a hardiness.
Hazel Alder
Shares 4 of the same needs: full sun, high water, sandy, and zone 9a hardiness.
Loblolly Bay
Shares 4 of the same needs: similar light, high water, loam, and zone 9a hardiness.
Parsley Hawthorn
Shares 4 of the same needs: full sun, high water, sandy, and zone 9a hardiness.
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Common questions
Is River Birch a good plant for St. Augustine?
River Birch is a tree for Zone 9b coastal Florida gardens, reaching 40-60 feet × 25-35 feet.
Care information verified from
Last reviewed February 2026. Our care guidance comes from trusted horticulture sources and decades of helping St. Augustine gardeners. Conditions here can vary dramatically from one area to the next, so come ask us and we'll tailor it to your yard.