River birch (Betula nigra) is a fast growing and long-lived deciduous medium to large-sized native tree. its flowers are unisexual, borne in separate male and female catkins on the same tree. The bark is light brown to buff, paper-like; exfoliating on young trees, turning to scaly bark on older trees. River birch prefers wet sites and does best in moist, acidic, sandy, or rocky, well-drained loam in full sun to part shade. The best foliage color occurs in full sun.

River birch is a host plant for Mourning Cloak (Nymphalis antiopa), Dreamy Duskywing (Erynnis icelus), and Eastern Tiger Swallowtail (Papilo glaucus) butterflies. The winged fruit is small, brown, and borne in clusters in the spring. Seeds consumed by turkey, small birds, and rodents. Its spring ripening make it particularly valuable. Birds and squirrels eat the male catkins in late winter/early spring.