Betula N. ‘Heritage’ 8-10‘

Latin Name: Betula nigra ‘Heritage’ (also sold as Heritage® and ‘Cully’)

Common Name: Heritage River Birch

Zones: 4-8 (some sources list 3-9)

Height & Spread: 40-70 feet tall, spreading 30-60 feet wide

Descriptive Features: A fast-growing selection of the native river birch, chosen for outstanding exfoliating bark that is more creamy white than the species. Forms a graceful, rounded, often multi-stemmed deciduous tree, and the bark starts reddish-pink, fades through cinnamon to creamy tan-white with age, and peels in thick, curling strips that provide dramatic winter interest. Glossy, light to dark green, pointed leaves turn a clear yellow in fall, and small chartreuse catkins appear in early spring. Highly resistant to bronze birch borer, which plagues most other birches, and good resistance to leaf spot. Thrives in moist to wet, well-drained soil and tolerates occasional flooding, and also handles average conditions and some drought once established. Prefers acidic soil, and in alkaline soil it is susceptible to chlorosis (yellowing). Prune only in summer after leaves have fully developed, since it bleeds sap if cut in late winter or early spring. Deer-resistant, and the seeds are enjoyed by chickadees, finches, and other songbirds. An excellent choice as a specimen, shade tree, or accent near rain gardens, ponds, and streams in full sun to partial shade.