River Birch (Betula nigra) is native to the eastern United States, restricted to stream banks and other moist places. It has a balanced and well-formed growth habit and interesting features through all seasons. The bark is exfoliating; gray-brown to ivory or copper colored. The tree can grow as tall as 40 to 70 feet and 15 to 30 inches in diameter.
 
Note: The photo of the bark is from a bare-root seedling planted in 2017 in Wood County.
 
Uses: River birch is useful in native-oriented landscapes. Its young twigs, buds, and foliage are browsed by white-tailed deer; seeds are eaten by grouse, turkeys, small birds and rodents. Its spring ripening makes it particularly valuable.