Betula nigra, River birch (R048) Pre-Bonsai
Species description: Betula nigra also known as river or black birch is the only birch species capable of growing in both warm and cold climates. Just like all birches, river birches develop a unique and beautiful flaking bark with age. This species has small leaves that especially lend well to bonsai. In the fall, the leaves reliably turn a golden yellow. The species is prone to some branch dieback, however can be mitigated with regular fertilization and pruning- keeping the vascular system active.
Specimen description: This river birch is being trained in the Kabudachi (clump) style, as birch sometimes naturally grow. This was achieved by planting several seedlings through a washer. The trees have responded well to the washer and it has created nearly radial roots. The tree has been cut back twice to induce back budding. It is now ready for its first wiring by the future artist. This tree ships dormant. Oregon and Washington state customers, please read our shipping policies.
USDA zones: 5-9
Light requirements: Full sun, river birch are a pioneer species
Watering requirements: Heavy watering required, river birch are one of the highest water mobility deciduous species and quickly suffer if allowed to dry out
*For additional care, visit our Care Sheets tab
Species description: Betula nigra also known as river or black birch is the only birch species capable of growing in both warm and cold climates. Just like all birches, river birches develop a unique and beautiful flaking bark with age. This species has small leaves that especially lend well to bonsai. In the fall, the leaves reliably turn a golden yellow. The species is prone to some branch dieback, however can be mitigated with regular fertilization and pruning- keeping the vascular system active.
Specimen description: This river birch is being trained in the Kabudachi (clump) style, as birch sometimes naturally grow. This was achieved by planting several seedlings through a washer. The trees have responded well to the washer and it has created nearly radial roots. The tree has been cut back twice to induce back budding. It is now ready for its first wiring by the future artist. This tree ships dormant. Oregon and Washington state customers, please read our shipping policies.
USDA zones: 5-9
Light requirements: Full sun, river birch are a pioneer species
Watering requirements: Heavy watering required, river birch are one of the highest water mobility deciduous species and quickly suffer if allowed to dry out
*For additional care, visit our Care Sheets tab
Species description: Betula nigra also known as river or black birch is the only birch species capable of growing in both warm and cold climates. Just like all birches, river birches develop a unique and beautiful flaking bark with age. This species has small leaves that especially lend well to bonsai. In the fall, the leaves reliably turn a golden yellow. The species is prone to some branch dieback, however can be mitigated with regular fertilization and pruning- keeping the vascular system active.
Specimen description: This river birch is being trained in the Kabudachi (clump) style, as birch sometimes naturally grow. This was achieved by planting several seedlings through a washer. The trees have responded well to the washer and it has created nearly radial roots. The tree has been cut back twice to induce back budding. It is now ready for its first wiring by the future artist. This tree ships dormant. Oregon and Washington state customers, please read our shipping policies.
USDA zones: 5-9
Light requirements: Full sun, river birch are a pioneer species
Watering requirements: Heavy watering required, river birch are one of the highest water mobility deciduous species and quickly suffer if allowed to dry out
*For additional care, visit our Care Sheets tab