Red Birch
Betula nigra
Last reviewed: July 2026
Red Birch (Betula nigra) is a deciduous tree native to eastern and central United States that blooms in April and May. This moisture-loving species thrives in wet soils and supports bees and moths as pollinators.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Red Birch as toxic to livestock.
Light
part sun
Water
high
Size
240"–900" H × 240"–600" W
Bloom
Apr, May
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 25 more states
Pollinators
bees, moths
Deer
Resistant (per Prairie Moon Nursery)
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Red birch is a graceful native tree with attractive peeling bark that reveals cinnamon and salmon colored layers underneath. It grows naturally in moist areas and tolerates wet soils better than most birches, making it excellent for rain gardens or low-lying areas.
Growing Red Birch
Grow Red Birch in part sun and high water. Mature plants reach 240 to 900 inches tall and spread 240 to 600 inches wide. Expect moderate maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Red Birch is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, mid zone, street edge.
- Requires consistent moisture which may increase maintenance needs
- Can drop small branches and bark pieces
Wildlife value
Host plant for Luna moth, Io moth, Polyphemus moth.
The tree supports bees and moths during its spring bloom period. Its seeds provide food for birds, and the bark and leaves host various native insects.
Common questions
- Where is Red Birch native to?
- Red Birch is native to much of the eastern and central United States, including states from Florida north to Massachusetts and west to Texas, Kansas, and Minnesota.
- When does Red Birch bloom?
- Red Birch produces flowers in April and May, with small catkins appearing before or as the leaves emerge.
- What pollinators does Red Birch support?
- Red Birch flowers attract bees and moths, providing important early season nectar and pollen resources.
- What growing conditions does Red Birch prefer?
- Red Birch thrives in consistently moist to wet soils and can tolerate full sun to partial shade conditions. It naturally grows along streams and in floodplains.
- Is Red Birch toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Red Birch as toxic to livestock.
- Is Red Birch HOA-friendly?
- Red Birch is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with moderate maintenance.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Red Birch? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.