Quick answer: River birch (Betula nigra) is native to 23 states. What's commonly sold under this name is the true wild species. It's typically live plant, verified 15 Sep 2026.
Where it's native
Listed in the register as native to these states. Click a state for its full native-plant guide.
Growing conditions
From the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center Native Plant Database.
| Sun | Part Shade |
|---|---|
| Water | High water, Moist |
| Soil | Sandy, sandy loam, medium loam, clay loam, clay, acid-based soils |
| Bloom | Bloom Feb-Mar |
| Height | 30-50 ft, up to 90 ft |
| Wildlife value | Seeds for granivorous birds and small mammals, browse, attracts birds |
Invasive / regulated
none noted (described as most trouble-free birch)
Buying it
Wild species
Sold true to the wild species as of the last check (15 Sep 2026), via Amazon.
Sold as: Live plant via Amazon · listing verified 15 Sep 2026
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