The River Birch (Betula nigra) is a fast-growing, native deciduous tree (40–70 ft) known for its distinctive peeling, salmon-colored bark and high adaptability to wet, acidic soils. Ideal for erosion control and landscapes, it grows up to 3 ft per year, thrives in full sun, and is resistant to the bronze birch borer. 
Key Features and Characteristics
Bark: The most defining feature, the bark exfoliates in papery layers, ranging from creamy-white to salmon-pink, tan, and cinnamon-brown, providing year-round visual interest.
Leaves & Growth: Leaves are simple, alternate, and diamond-shaped with serrated edges, turning a pale, butter-yellow in autumn. The tree often grows with a multi-stemmed, pyramidal, or rounded form.
Size: Typically reaches 40 to 70 feet in height and 30 to 50 feet in width.
Growth Rate: Fast, growing 1.5 to 3 feet per year.
Lifespan: Generally 50 to 70 years in good conditions. 
Growing Conditions and Care
Zones: Hardy in USDA Zones 4–9.
Soil: Prefers moist, rich, acidic soil, but is highly adaptable to clay and can tolerate occasional flooding and moderate drought once established.
Light: Full sun to partial shade.
Problems: Susceptible to leaf spot in wet springs, aphids, and iron chlorosis (yellowing leaves) if the soil pH is too high (alkaline). 
Landscape and Wildlife Value
Usage: Excellent for specimen planting, shade, and, as the name suggests, along streams, ponds, or in low-lying, wet, or boggy areas.
Wildlife: Seeds are eaten by songbirds (chickadees, finches), while the foliage serves as food for deer.