River Birch Trees Surprise in East Sarasota and Manatee counties

River Birch trees are always a pleasant surprise for newcomers relocating to Florida. Instead of white trunks associated with other birches, this specimen in east Sarasota and Manatee counties boasts a showy trunk of silver and salmon bark that peels into papery curls for year-long contrast. Its stunning “trunk show” is what makes this deciduous ornamental so admired by residents in The Concession, Panther Ridge, Lake Club and other nearby areas.

Dura-Heat® River Birch cultivar

And that’s just one attractive feature of this deciduous ornamental. When you plant the Dura-Heat® River Birch (ArtisTree Landscape highly recommends this improved cultivar), you’ll have a more heat-tolerant tree that retains foliage longer in the fall. Its denser crown of double-toothed leaves will turn a buttery yellow when exfoliating, then new leaves appear in a lovely soft green in spring. The Dura-Heat® cultivar is also more resistant to pests and diseases.

Where to plant? These medium-size fast growers have a very pleasing residential scale, growing up to 30-40 feet and averaging 2-3 feet of new growth a year. Can be grown as a single or multi-trunk tree. They prefer moderately compacted soil and will tolerate overwatering. But they adapt well to drier sites once roots are established. Full sun is best. If you live on Siesta Key or Casey Key, select another specimen, though. River Birch trees aren’t hardy in salty environments.

If you’re looking for a classic shade tree with lots of character, consider the River Birch for a beautiful boost to your landscape. Need assistance with a renovation? Contact Jenni Lassen at 941.488.8897, ext. 312, to meet with one of our award-winning designers. We proudly serve Sarasota, Manatee and Charlotte counties.